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A COURSE IN 
QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



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THK MACMILLAN COMPANY 



UACMILLAN & C 



THE UACMILLAN CO. OF CANADA, Lib. 



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A COURSE IN 

QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL 

ANALYSIS 



CHARLES BASKERVILLE, Ph.D., F.C.S. 



LOUIS J. CURTMAN, Ph.D. 



THE MACMILLAN COMPANY 
1916 

AH rigUs rtt4rvti 



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MAIN U»«»l<V-»"l='"-'''''« "=■■ • 

COFmSHT, igio AMD 1916, 

Bt the hacmillan company. i 



Set up mil clectrotTPxl' Publiihcd December, igio. Sepilnted 
Ociobcr, 1911; July, 191a; Jinuaiy, 1913; Febniuy, Octoba, 

RcTucd cdilios, Scplcmber, October, igit. 



thuUiig On. — Barwtsk A 
Bgnrood, Mul. U.B.J 



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PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION 

The reception of this book by teachers of Qualitative Analy- 
sis, calling for a number of reprintings of the first edition, has 
been a source of gratification to the Authors. In the revision, 
some changes and additions, as indicated by the use of the 
book, have been made. The original plan of the book, how- 
ever, has been maintained. Some valuable suggestions from 
others have been utihzed- The theory of Electrolytic Disso- 
ciation and the Law of Mass Action have been outlined. New 
methods, some proposed elsewhere and some developed by 
original work in our qualitative laboratories, have been incor- 
porated. All of the new methods given have been thoroughly 
tried out 

THE AUTHORS. 

N«w York Cmr, 
JiHj, 1 91 6. 



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PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION 

Experience has shown the authors that a quantitative dis- 
ciitninatioii in Qualitative Analysis for students is rarely exer- 
cised, although it is generally conceded that qualitative analysis 
should serve not only as a means for determining the compo- 
nents in an " unknown," but also, though roughly, the propor- 
tions in which the ingredients are present. This failure to gain 
experience in the evaluation of tests is, we believe, largely due 
to the fact that in the preliminary work which precedes the 
analysis of "unknowns," adequate provision is not made 
whereby the quantitative aspect as well as the qualitative 
meaning of the results can he simultaneously studied. 

In our work the quantitative feature is emphasized, first, by 
early acquainting the student with the fact that there is a limit 
in the quantity of an element in a definite volume that may be 
detected by a given reaction ; second, by the use of known 
solutions which are prepared to contain definite amounts of the 
elements of a group in a definite volume. For example, the 
label on the bottle states the metallic concentration of its 
contents, and the student by using a specified volume knows 
precisely how many milligrams of each metal he is using. The 
advantages in the use of such a solution are : first, the size of 
the precipitates may be controlled by the instructor and precipi- 
tates of unwieldy hulk avoided ; second, and this is the chief 
advantage, in addition to familiarizing himself with the reac- 
tions and separations, the student also learns tke relation between 
tke quantity of metal present and the size of tke precipitate which 
it yields. The quantitative information thus acquired in the 
analysis of known solutions is subsequently applied to the 



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viii PREFACE 

analysis of unknowns. In consequence of this training, the 
student is able to report not only the qualitative composition 
of his unkno\*ns, but also approximately their quantitative com- 
position. The value of such training cannot be overestimated. 
Our students rarely find any difficulty in differentiating between 
a trace and a significant amount In the schemes of analysis 
for the metals, preference has been given in a vast majority 
of cases to precipitation tests, because of their quantitative 
significance. 

Detailed methods for the preparation of solutions of definite 
strength are given for the assistance of the instructor. 

The value of introducing preliminary experiments in a course 
in Qualitative Analysis is a mooted question. We believe that 
they should be restricted to those which are utilized in the 
schemes of separation. Experience has shown us that it is a 
good plan to have in the laboratory several sets of bottles con- 
taining solutions of known strength of the salts of the various 
metals. The students are encouraged to use these to verify 
any of the preliminary tests in case of doubt By comparing 
in special cases the results obtained with known solutions with 
those obtained with the unknown, a definite knowledge of that 
particular reaction is fixed in the student's mind. Students 
should be encouraged to use short cuts, and the use of the 
preliminary test as a means of indicating short cuts. 

It is assumed that the student who begins the study of Quali- 
tative Analysis has had a course in laboratory work in General 
Chemistry, and has thus become familiar with such operations 
as making solutions, precipitations, evaporations, ignitions,, and 
the preparation of borax beads. He has also become familiar 
with the term " solubility." For these reasons such matters 
have received but scant attention in this book. 

The student should have had not a little experience in writing 
equations. The application of his knowledge, often meager, 
to the processes of oxidation and reduction, as well as to the 
mode of operation of reagents producing these changes, is not 
always clear; or his knowledge is not sufficient to cope with 
the cases met with in Qualitative Analysis. For this reason 



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PREFACE ix 

these matters have been brought together and coordinated with 
some detail in the beginning of the book. 

The essential features of this book may be seen from the 
plan which is here briefly outlined. 

1. The chief reactions of the metals are first given with suffi- 
cient detail and completeness to enable the student to thor- 
oughly understand the basis of and the limitations to the 
schemes of analysis adopted. Reactions not utilized in the 
schemes are also given to supply information which may be 
turned to account in making additional confirmatory tests and 
in devising schemes other than those given ; they also supply 
a number of qualitative facts upon which important quantitative 
methods are based. As the vast majority of students who take 
Qualitative Analysis subsequently pursue a course in Quantita- 
tive Analysis, this information supplies the foundation of fact 
which we believe should be given in the qualitative course. 

2. An outline of the method of analysis to be employed fol- 
lows. This is in the nature of a r^sum^ of the chief reactions, 
in which distinctions are emphasized with a view to their use in 
separations. Details in manipulation are purposely omitted in 
this discussion, in order that the main features and chemistry 
thereof may be clearly understood. 

3. The scheme of analysis is then taken up. The directions 
are clear, especial attention being given to the amounts of 
reagents to be taken, as well as the most appropriate vessel 
to be used and its size. 

4. Then follow notes. Under this head, additional informa- 
tion, which would obstruct the reading of the text, is supplied. 
This information is intended to supply the reasons for unusual 
details or procedures in the text and precautions that are to be 
taken, but it applies chiefly to matters relating to the correcting 
of errors and to the clearing up of doubtful results. Supplying 
the reasons for every step, it is believed, will go a long way 
toward doing away with the too frequent practice of blindly 
following directions. 

The so-called rarer elements have been omitted, and some of 
the commoner ones also, as their study is not essential in a 



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X PS£BACE 

first course in Qualitative Analysis. This is essentially a prac- 
tical book and not the place to exploit any particular hypothesis 
or theory. Its contents are directed toward the study of reac- 
tions and the operations and methods made use of in the identi- 
fication of unknown substances or mixtures. Discussions of the 
theory of electrolytic dissociation and the mass action law are 
now presented in courses in General Chemistry. These may 
be further applied in lectures, which form an integral part of 
the study of Qualitative Analysis, and are of especial value 
when accompanied by collateral reading of special works on the 
theoretical phases of the subject 

The authors are aware that no direcdons, however detailed 
and carefully written, can replace the resourcefulness of the 
instructor ; he should be particularly observant during the first 
laboratory periods when methods of work are about to be 
acquired, and should be quick to give personal attention to 
those who need it most There are those to whom skill in 
manipulation comes naturally, but it should be remembered 
that those not so gifted may, by perseverance and constant 
practice, acquire an unusual degree of skilL A bright student 
will soon learn that he may carry on two or more operations 
at once, as filtration of one liquid while evaporating another, 
without the suggestion of an automatic teacher; but the work 
of the class as a whole will suffer unless the instructor is alive 
and richly suggestive. 

In the recitations, questions may be asked concerning 
separations and tests, other than those given in the schemes, 
but which are given in the descriptive portion of the book; 
these serve to stimulate original thinking and give oppor- 
tunity for the exercise of individual ingenuity. Written 
quizzes have little value beyond securing figures for grading, 
unless the papers, after being corrected, are discussed with 
the students. 

Well-known works on the subject have been drawn from 
more or less. We wish especially to mention Fresenius, Pres- 
cott and Johnson, Treadwell, Knoevenagel, and A. A. Noyes. 
Conflicting statements appear in many books; in some cases 



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PREFACE xi 

consultation of the original sources sufficed, in others research 
was necessary, to arrive at a decision. 

We are indebted to Mr. W. A. Hamor, who assisted in fol- 
lowing the proof sheets. 

CHARLES BASKERVILLE. 

LOUIS J. CURTMAN. 

COLLKGB OP TRB CmT OP NKW VOUC, 
NoTcmbef, 19101 



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TABLE OF CONTENTS 



Prefaces . . v, vii 

iNTRODUCnOK 

(a) Analytical Cheroistrf Defined i 

(i) Terms i 

(c) General Directions for Laboratorj Wodc .... 3 

(d) Theory of Electrolytic Dissociation ..... 4 
(e) Law of Mass Action 12 

(/) Equations . 20 

(g) OsidatioD and Reduction ....... 23 

(A) Classification 29 

PART I 

The Metai^. Descriptive and Analytical 33 

PART II 

(a) The Acms. Descriptive and Analytical 123 

(j) Preluiinary Examination 160 

PART III 

Couplets Analysis 

(a) SchemeforGroupIII inthePrcsenceofOiganicMatteriPhoB- 
phates, etc 185 

(6) Preparation of the Solation 189 

(e) Alloys 192 

(ff) Treatment of Insoluble Substances 193 

(e) Add Analysis of Minerals and Metallurgical Producta . . 199 

Appendix i. Table of Solubilities 201 

2. Reagents 205 

3. List 1^ Apparatus 2tt 

4. Preparation of Unknowns 212 

Index 217 



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INTRODUCTION 

That branch of chemistry concerned with the. problem of de- __, 
termining the composition of substances or nimi,ii*S..i)f stibt |' 
stances and identifying them is called Analytical CheiDlst^'. . . 
Substances are identified by their properties *«hich,rfoE ^liy ^'ie^: '- - 
substance, are unchangeable and fixed. The problem of identi- 
fying a substance, therefore, resolves itself into a determination 
of a sufficient number of the properties of the substance in ques- 
tion. For a mixture of substances it is frequently necessary to 
separate the components before the latter can be identified. 

The term analysis is used in Analytical Chemistry to denote 
the systematic examination of a substance, and includes all the 
operations, whether analytic or synthetic, involved in the process 
of identifying a substance. An analysis may be either qnallta- 
tive or quantitatlTe. If we satisfy ourselves that a ten-cent 
piece consists of copper and silver, our knowledge is qualitative; 
but if we ascertain how much copper and silver are contained in 
a given weight of this alloy, our knowledge becomes quantita- 
tive. For qualitative purposes, only a few of the many proper- 
ties possessed by a substance are utilized for its identification. 
In general, those which are striking and most rapidly determined 
are the ones selected ; chief among these are color, state of 
aggregation, solubility, and certain chemical properties. 

Terms employed in Qualitative Analysis 
If to an aqueous solution of sodium chloride we add a water 
solution of silver nitrate, a white, curdy, solid substance forms 
and settles to the bottom of the containing vessel. The chem- 
ical change, as evidenced by the formation of the new sub- 
stance, AgCl, and brought about by mixing these solutions, is 
called a reaction. The AgNOj solution employed to produce 
this reaction is called the reagent. The solid, insoluble AgCl is 



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2 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

called the predpitate. Any reaction which is accompanied by 
the formation of a precipitate is called a precipitation reaction 
and the process of forming a precipitate is known as preciplta- 
tiott. If we allow the precipitate to settle and carefully pour off 
the clear supernatant liquid, the process is known as decantatioa. 
If, without allowing the precipitate to settle, we pour the liquid 
■■:h9lding.the.gr.edpitate in suspension on a filter paper, supported 
•ifr-a funnel- Sr^dtBer design of filtering apparatus, the liquid will 
1 jpa^_:tjl^6jt^h th&fTne pores of the filter and will be thus sepa- 
' "rSted 'fforh' W& ^rftcipitate, which will remain on the paper. 
This process is known as filtration and is frequently resorted to 
for the separation of a liquid from a solid. The precipitate on 
the iilter is sometimes called the residue, while the liquid which 
passes through is called the filtrate. The equation for the 
reaction, omitting consideration of the water, is — 
NaCl + AgNOg = AgCl + NaNOg. 
Assuming that an excess of silver nitrate has been used, the pre- 
cipitated and filtered AgCl will be wet with a solution containing 
NaNOa and AgNOg. As these are soluble in water, it is evi- 
dent that they may be removed by treating the precipitate on 
the filter with water. The process of removing soluble impuri- 
ties from insoluble substances by treatment with water is known 
as washing.* All precipitates should be thoroughly washed. 
Much time will be saved in washing precipitates by allowing 
each portion of water completely to pass through the filter 
before adding the next. The completeness of the washing is 
ascertained by testing a portion of the last washings for the sub- 
stance it is desired to remove. In the above case, after washing 
several times with small amounts of water, the last portion 
should be tested by adding to it a little NaCl solution. If no 
precipitate is formed, the washing may be considered complete ; 
if a precipitate or cloudiness is obt^ned, it is an indication that 
all the AgNOg has not been washed out of the precipitate. In 
the latter case, the washing should be continued until a negative 
test with NaCl is obtained. 



* Water is otcd here u the typical solvent. 



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INTWDUCTIOir 



General Directions for Laboratory Work 

Order and cleanliness are essential to success in qualitative 
analysis. It is a good plan never to put away apparatus until 
the latter is clean and ready for use. Beakers, evaporating 
dishes, and funnels, after being thoroughly washed, should 
finally be rinsed with distilled water, inverted, and allowed to 
drain and dry on a clean towel which has been spread out on 
the floor of the cupboard of the desk. Every piece of appara- 
tus in the desk should have a fixed place. Iron ware should 
not be kept in the same drawer or compartment with glass ware. 
Some attention should also be given to the arrangement of 
apparatus on the desk. In general, the desk space should be 
roughly divided into two parts — namely, one reserved for heat- 
ing, and the other for filtering, washing, testing, etc. Reagent 
bottles must never be allowed to accumulate on the desk, but 
should be returned to their proper places immediately after use. 
Accidents, which occasionally happen even to the most careful 
workers, must receive immediate attention; the broken glass 
should be collected and thrown into a special crock provided 
for this purpose ; and the desk top should be sponged off, the 
apparatus cleaned, and the analysis begun anew. Vessels con- 
taining solutions or precipitates which are to be set aside for 
future examination should be properly labeled. 

Reagents. The bottles on the desk are iilled with solutions 
known as reagents. They should occasionally be wiped off 
with a moist rag and every effort should be made to keep their 
contents pure. When once an impurity is allowed to enter a 
reagent bottle, the reagent becomes worthless. The importance 
of the care of reagents will be appreciated when it is remem- 
bered that the value of the whole analysis is dependent upon 
their purity. The bottles should always be kept properly 
stoppered, and the stopper under no circumstances should be 
placed on the desk, where it is likely to take up impurities and 
thus eventually contaminate the reagent. The student should 
make it a rule always to hold the stopper between the fingers 
while using the bottle and to return it immediately after use; 



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4 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

in this way danger of contamination from the desk is avoided. 
Acids of two strengths will be found on the desk. Before 
using the reagents, the student should be sure that he is using 
the proper ones. If he will learn in each case the reason for 
adding the reagent, the error arising from the use of the wrong 
reagent will seldom, if ever, occur. Too much reagent is worse 
than adding too little. Reagents should always be added drop 
by drop and should never be used in great excess, unless other- 
wise directed; but under no circumstance is an excess of 
reagent to be poured back into the bottle. 

All operations which result in the production of fumes of 
any kind must be conducted under the hood, with the window 
of the latter almost completely closed. 

The Theory of Electrolytic Dissociation* 
When a substance such as sugar is added to water and the 
latter stirred, there results a homogeneous mixture known as a 
solution. The dissolved substance, the sugar, is called the 
solute ; the water in which the sugar dissolves, the solvent. In 
a similar manner we may prepare an aqueous solution of salt. 
An experimental study of the properties of aqueous solutions 
discloses the fact that some conduct the electric current, while 
others do not; e.g., a solution of sugar does not permit the pas- 
sage of the current, while on the other hand a solution of salt is 
found to be a good conductor of electricity. It is natural to 
suppose that the solute which is different in the two cases cited 
is responsible for the difference in behavior. Experiment con- 
firms this supposition. We may therefore divide substances 
soluble in water into two classes, viz. (a) those which conduct 
the electric current and {b) those which do not. The former 
are called electrolytes, the latter non-electrolytes. Acids, bases, 
and salts are electrolytes. Sugar, glycerol, urea, ethyl alcohol, 
are non-electrolytes. 

■ The theoietical matter dealt with in this lectioii is genendl^ con^deted more 
oi leu in preUminary coana in Geaeial Chemiitrf. A brief summary ii here giveo 
partly to refruh the itudent'i knovriedge, bat chieSy to emphasize certain pdnciplea 
which have many appUcations in the &eld of qualitative analydi. 



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INTSODVCTION 5 

A study of the freezing and boiling pmnts of aqueous solu- 
tions leads to a similar classification. Thus if 60 grams (the 
molecular weight) of urea are dissolved in 1000 grams of water, 
the resulting solution, which is said to contain one mole of urea, 
is found to freeze at —1.86° C- The same result is obtained 
when a solution containing one mole of any other non-electro- 
lyte is cooled to its freezing point. In general, it has been 
found that the freezing point of a dilute solution of a non- 
electrolyte is solely dependent upon the number of moles in 
solution, provided that in freezing only the pure solvent sepa- 
rates out. Thus the freezing point of a solution of 50 grams of 
methyl alcohol in 1000 grams of water is found to be —'2.90°. 
This is what we should expect, since the number of moles in 
solution is |^, or 1.56. And as the freezing point is lowered 
1.86° for each mole of a non-electrolyte, the total lowering 
should be 1.86 X 1.56 = 2.9a 

On the other hand, if we dissolve -^oi a mole (5.85 grams) 
of sodium chloride iii 1000 grams of water and determine its 
freezing point, we should find it to be — 0.350°. If sodium 
chloride were a non-electrolyte, the freezing point should be 
— 0.186. On comparing these results we see that the lowering 

is —^ , or 1 .88, times greater than that which we should obtain' if 

salt were a non-electrolyte. A comparative study of the boiling 
points of molar solutions of electrolytes and non-electrolytes 
reveals a similar di£Eerence, viz. that solutions of electrolytes 
boil at a higher temperature than solutions of non-electrolytes 
of the same molar concentration. On the basis of an experi- 
mental stud^of three of the properties of solutions, viz. con- 
ductivity, biffiing point, and freezing point, we are thus led to a 
division oif soluble substances into two classes, electrolytes and 
non-electrolytes. 

Moreover, a study of the reactions of electrolytes in solution 
shows that they behave in solution as though their constituent 
parts were independent of each other ; thus solutions of KCl, 
NaCI, BaClj, and FeClg each give the same precipitate with a 
solution of AgNOg, Ag,SO|, AgC,HgO^ or AgF. In other 



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6 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

words, the chlorine in the first series of salts reacts independently 
of the metal with which it is united to give a precipitate of AgCl 
when any soluble salt of silver is added, the silver acting inde- 
pendently of the acid radical with which it is united in the dry 
state. In general, all electrolytes having a common com- 
ponent will respond to a reaction that is characteristic of that 
component. 

All these differences in the properties of solutions of electro- 
lytes and non-electrolytes find their explanation in the Theory 
of Electrolytic Dissociation which was proposed by Svante 
Arrhenius in 1887. According to this theory when an electrolyte 
is dissolved in water, it breaks up or dissociates more or less 
completely into electrically charged particles called ums. These 
ions are of two kinds, viz, those carrying positive electricity called 
cations and those bearing negative charges called anions. As 
the resulting solution is electrically neutral, the sum of all the 
positive charges in solution; must be equal to the total number 
of negative charges. The change which takes place according 
to this theory when an electrolyte is dissolved in water may be 
formulated as follows : — 

HCl5iH++CI-, 

NaOH^Na++OH-. 

NaCl^Na+H-Cl- 

The above shows that dissociation is to be looked upon as a 
reversible reaction. The extent of the dissociation varies with 
the dilution ; and at infinite dilution, the dissociation may be re- 
garded as complete. The -f- sign between the ions indicates 
that they are to be regarded as independent particles with spe- 
cific chemical and physical properties. The possession of a 
charge of positive electricity renders the sodium ion (Na*') totally 
different from the elementary substance sodium. The same 
holds true for the hydrogen ion, which is distinctly different from 
the electrically neutral hydrogen gas. Metallic sodium, as is 
well known, reacts violently with water ; sodium ions do not 
We usually recognize hydrogen ions by their sour taste and by 
their property of changing the cotor of solutions of certain sub- 



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IHTSODVCTION 7 

staoces, called indicators. Hydrogen gas does not exhibit these 
properties. 

By passing a current through an aqueous solution of NaCl, 
the electro-negative chlorine ions will travel toWards the positive 
electrode, give up their charges to the latter, and become elec- 
trically neutral chlorine, which exhibits the well-known properties 
of this element The electro-positive sodium ions will at the 
same time migrate to the positive electrode. Sodium ions 
are not discharged at this pole owing to the fact that the 
hydrogen ions, formed by the dissociation of the water, lose 
their charges more readily than do the sodium ions. Conse- 
quently on passage of the current, the hydrc^en ions lose their 
charge and electrically neutral hydrogen escapes at the positive 
electrode. 

Before taking up the applications of the ionic theory let us see 
how it accounts for the facts mentioned in the early part of this 
discussion. Since the depression of the freezing point is de- 
pendent upon the number of particles of the dissolved substance 
in a given weight of the solvent, it follows that a solution of an 
electrolyte should depress the freezing point more than a solu- 
tion of non-electrolyte of the same molar concentration, for the 
reason that in the former we should have a greater number of 
particles, each molecule of the electrolyte being capable of yield- 
ing at least two ions. The same explanation applies to the 
observed differences in the boiling points. The existence of 
electrically charged ions in solutions accounts for the conduc- 
tivity of solutions of electrolytes ; and the failure of solutions of 
non-electrolytes to conduct the current is due to the absence of 
ions. Finally, we have to consider how the ionic theory accounts 
for the independent behavior of the components of electrolytes 
in solution, which, as already mentioned, makes it possible for 
salts having a common component to respond to a common reac- 
tion. Since all chlorides yield chlorine ions, it is perfectly clear 
why they should all give a precipitate with any soluble silver 
salt, for the latter, according to the ionic theory, supplies silver 
ions. This can be best seen by writing the equations for the 
reaction in ionic form: — 



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8 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Ag+ + NOg- + Na+ + CI- = AgCl + Na+ + NO," (i) 

1 Ag+ + F- + NH4+ + CI- = AgCl + NH^+ + F" (2) 

If we cancel in each equation the ions which appear on oppo- 
site sides, equations (i) and (2) become : — 

Ag+ + Cl- = AgCL 

The last equation states that when silver and chlorine ions 
are brought together, silver chloride Is formed; and as the 
latter is a difficultly soluble substance, a precipitate of AgCl is 
generally obtained. Hence we say that Ag ions are a test for 
CI ions, and vice versa. From solutions, AgCl is formed only 
by the combinatioQ of Ag and CI ions ; therefore solutions of 
KClOg or CHCls do not yield a precipitate with silver nitrate 
for the reason that no chlorine ions are formed by either of » 
these substances in solution. Chloroform in aqueous solution 
does not conduct the electric current, giving no evidence of dis- 
sociation, and hence yields no chlorine ions. Potassium chlorate 
does ionize in solution, but the ions are K* and ClOj". 

Acids and Bases. In terms of the ionic theory an add may 
be defined as a substance which, when dissolved in water, dis- 
sociates with the formation of hydrogen ions. 

Thus HCl5tH+-fCI-. 

Dibasic acids dissociate in two and tribasic adds in three 
stages, as shown below : — 

(HaSO^ 5tH++HS04-, 

Jhso,- ^H+ + S04~. 

HgPOt ^H+-HHaPOt-, 
H3PO4- ^H++HP04— . 
HP04~5tH+-f PO4 . 

Thus a solution of sulphuric acid may contain, besides the 
undissociated acid, the ions H and HSO4. All the character- 
istic properties of acids in solution — viz. (i) sour taste, (2) the 
ability to change the colors of indicators, (3) the ability to give 



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INTRODUCTION g 

off hydrogen gas when treated with certain metals, (4) the power 
to neutralize bases — are due to the presence of hydrogen ions. 
The hydrogen ions are thus the active constituents of acid solu- 
tions. The differences in the strengths of acids are due to 
variations in the extent to which they are dissociated. We thus 
distinguish two classes of acids. Those which dissociate largely 
and thus supply a high concentration of hydrogen ions, and 
those which dissociate slightly and thus yield a low concentra- 
tion of hydrogen ions ; the former are called strong, the latter 
weak, acids. 

The active component of solutions of bases is the hydroxyl 
ion (0H~), and to it are attributable all the characteristic prop- 
erties of bases, viz., (i) the ability to turn red litmus blue, (2) the 
alkaline taste, (3) the power to neutralize acids. We may define 
a base, therefore, as a substance which, when dissolved in water, 
dissociates with the formation of OH ions. The following are 
examples : — 

NaOH ^Na+ -t- OH". 

I Ca(OH), :^ CaOH+ -I- OH" 

lcaOH+ :^Ca++ -J- OH". 

Di-acid bases dissociate in two steps as shown above. As in 
the case of acids, we distinguish two classes of bases, depending 
upon the degree to which they are dissociated, A strong base 
yields a large percentage of OH ions; a weak base dissociates 
feebly, yielding a small concentration of OH ions. 

Salts yield on dissociation negative ions of the acid and 
positive ions of the base, as shown here : — 

NaCl ^Na+ -t-Cl^. 

(NH4)aS0i5*:NHt+-f NH^SO," 
NH^SOr :?iNH4+-l-S04— . 

CoBdnctlvity and Dissociation. The conductivity of a solution 
is conditioned by the presence of ions, for the latter are the 
means by which the current is transported through the solution. 
Therefore, the greater the extent to which an electrolyte is disso- 
ciated in solution, the greater will be its conductivity ; and, con- 



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lo QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

versely, the greater the conductivity of a solution containing sn 
equivalent weight of an electrolyte, the greater will be its dis- 
sociation. In the electrical conductivity of a solution, therefore, 
we have a ready means of determining the degree of dissocia- 
tion. In practice the resistance of the solution is determined 
and from the latter the conductivity is readily calculated, the 
conductivity being the reciprocal of the resistance. 

In conductivity determinations, the results are generally ex- 
pressed on the basis of equivalent quantities. 

T/ig specific resistance of a solution is the resistance in ohms 
of a cube of one centimeter edge. The specific conductivity is 
the reciprocal of the specific resistance, and is therefore ex- 
pressed in reciprocal ohms. The molar conductivity is the con- 
ductivity of a solution which contains the molecular weight of 
the substance in grams, contained between electrodes one centi- 
meter apart. If, instead of the molecular weight, we use the 
equivalent weight • in grams of the substance, we get the 
equivalent conductivity. If we denote the equivalent conduc- 
tivity by X (lambda) and the specific conductivity by k (kappa), 
then we have X = a: x », where v is the volume in cc, which 
contains the gram equivalent of the substance. An example 
will make this relation clear. Suppose we wish to find the con- 
ductivity of a o. I normal solution of HCl. We first determine 
the specific resistance, i.e., the resistance of a i cm. cube of the 
solution when the latter is contained between two parallel elec- 
trodes. This is found to be 28, 5 ohms. Its specific conductivity 

is therefore --— , or 0.0351, reciprocal ohm. Since the solu- 
28.5 

tion is tenth normal, one equivalent wUl be contained in 10 liters, 
or io,ooocc. Therefore X = equivalent conductivity = 10,000 X 
0.0351 =■ 351 reciprocal ohms. 

The equivalent conductivity is found to increase with the di- 
lution up to a certain point and then remains constant, so far as 
measurements show. At this point of maximum conductivity, 

* In the cue of monobaiic ta^ and their salt*, tbe equivalent and molar con- 
ductivities will be identicid. Witti dibasic acids and theic lalt*, the equivalent will 
be one half of the moleculai weight expiened in gramt. 



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INTWDVCTIOlf H 

the electrolyte must be completely dissociated into its ions, and 
hence no increase in conductivity results on further dilution. 
The maximum conductivity is generally referred to as the con- 
ductiviiy at infinite dilution and is usually calculated from the 
curve representing the conductivities for known dilutions. 
Since the conductivity is proportional to the number of ions in 
solution, it follows that the ratio of the equivalent conductivity 
at a given dilution, to that at infinite dilution, will gine us the 
percentage of the electrolyte that is ionized or the degree of dis- 
sociation at the given dilution; or « = — ^, where* denotes the 

M- 
degree of dissociation of the electrolyte at the dilution v, /«, the 
equivalent conductivity at the dilution v, and /i. the equivalent 
conductivity at infinite dilution. An example will illustrate the 
application of the above principle. 

The specific resistance of a HCl solution containing 1.825 
grams of HCl per liter is found by experiment to be 55.55 ohms 

at + 18°. 



36.5'- 

— , of a gram equivalent. Therefore v, the volume which will 

contain one gram equivalent (36. 5 g.)of HCl, will be 20 liters, or 

20,000 cc. Hence «, = 20,oc» x = 360 reciprocal ohms. 

That is to say, the equivalent conductivity of such a solution is 
360 reciprocal ohms. The equivalent conductivity of an HCl 
solution at infinite dilution at 18°, obtained by extrapolation 
from the curve of conductivities of known dilutions, is found to 
be 384 reciprocal ohms. Therefore « = ||| = 93.75 %. That 
is to say, a solution containing 1.825 g- HCl per liter or ^a ^ 
molar solution of HCl, 93.75% of the HCl is dissociated into H 
and CI ions, while but 6.25 % is in the un-ionlzed condition. 

In the following table are given the approximate values of 
the dissociation of the more common electrolytes met with in 
qualitative analysis : — 



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QVAUTATIYE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 







o.. Mo»»«. SoLonoH 


H+Cl-i H+Br-; H+I" 


; H*NO,- 


90 


H+ HSO,- 




60 


H+HC,0.- 




34 


H+HSO,- 




20 


H+H,POr 




13 


H+C,H,0,- 




1-4 


H+ HCO,- 




0.12 


H+HS- 




aos 


H+CN- 




OXll 


BASBS 






K+OH-; Na+OH- 




86 


Ba+(OH-), 




« 


NH,+ OH- 




1.4 



8AIT8 

Type B+A^KNOs, KCl) 84 

Type B3+ A— or B++ A," (KaSO^, CaCl,) 71 

Type B8+ A or B+++ Af (Kg Fe (CN)^ FeCl,) 65 

Type B-^+ A— (MgSOj) 40 

Pure water aoooooooz 

The Law of Mass Action 
In the following reversible reaction, 

A + B:;tC+D, 
let us denote the concentrations • of each of the substances by 
[A], [Bl, [C], and [D] respectively. Let v represent the ve- 
locity with which A and B react to form C and D and 1/ the 
rate at which A and B are formed by the reaction between C 
and D. Experiment shows that, all other things being constant, 
V wiH be proportional to [A] and also to [B] and therefore to 
their product, or 

i'=!*x[A]x[B], 

'These aie cipresKd in molei pet litei; thai ft HQ sotuUoa cantaining 
1.835 B- HQ pet liter coDUini ^^^ = — mole ; or i cc contain 0.00005 ■Q'^'^- 



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IKTSODVCTIOy 13 

where <& is a constant dependent upon the nature of the sub- 
stances reacting as well as upon the temperature. Similarly, 
the velocity of the reaction in the reverse direction, i.e., the 
formation of A and B by the interaction of C and D may be 
represented by 

At equilibrium, the velocities in both directions will he equal ; 
and we have therefore 

v=v' or A X [A] X [B] = ^ X [C] x [D], or 
[C]x[D] _j:_„ 
[A]x[B] k • 

Expressed in words the above equation states that the product 
of the concentrations of the final substances, divided by the 
product of the concentrations of the initial substances, is 
a constant for any definite temperature for a reversible 
reaction. 

Where three substances are involved on each side of the equa- 
tion, the same principle applies. Thus the equation expressing 
the equilibrium for the reaction 

A + B + C ij D + E + F would be IJliilfliil^ = K. 

LAJ X [Bj X [^CJ 

If two combining weights of any substance take part in the 
reaction, then each is to be separately considered; thus the re- 
versible reaction 

A-t-2B:;^C + D may be written A + B + BqtC+D; 

and the equilibrium equation becomes 

[C]x[D] _K 
[A]x[B]> ■ 

In its most general form, the law of mass action as expressed 
in the above equation maybe stated as follows: At any constant 
temperature, equilibrium will be reached in a reversibleTea(Aion, 
when the product of the concentrations of^e final substances 



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14 QUAUTATIVE CBBUICAL ANALYSIS 

divided by the product of the coacentiatioas of the initial sub- 
stances — each concentration raised to a power equal to the num* 
her of combining weights reacting — is a constant 

The Mass Action Lav and Ionization. As the ionization 
of an electrolyte is a reversible reaction, we should expect 
that it would obey the law of mass action. Experiment 
shows, however, that while the mass action law rigidly 
apphes to weak electrolytes, such as ammonium hydroxide 
and acetic acid, it does not apply, for reasons which still 
remain to be explained, to the dissociation of strongly ionized 
acids, bases, and salts. 

An example will illustrate the application of the mass action 
law to ionization. A normal solution of ammonium hydroxide 
Is found by experiment to ionize to the extent of o^%. loniza* 
tion takes place according to the scheme 

NH.OH :^ NH/+ OH- (i) 

At equilibrium at a given temperature, we have 

[NH.OH] '^ ^'> 

Sub^tuting the values in the above equation, we get 

°°°4''°°°4 _<,oooo.6. 
0.996 

Influence of Dilution. Let us suppose that a nonnal solution 
of NH4OH is diluted n times. Then the value of each of the 

concentrations in equation (z) will be reduced to - of its original 

magnitude, and we have 

i[NH,+]xi[OH-] 



. [NH/] X [0H-] 
i[NH.OH] " «[NH.OH] 



<K. 



The fraction will no longer be equal to the equilibrium con- 
stant K, because the value of the denominator has been increased 



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INTSODVCTION ij 

m times its original value. In order to restore the disturbed 
equilibrium, reaction (i) must proceed from left to right until, 
by an increase in the concentrations of 0H~ and NHj+ and a 
consequent decrease in the undissociated NH^OH, the ratio 
again becomes equal to K, It is evident that the net result of 
the dilution is an increase in the dissociation. 

The Common Ion Effect. The ionization of acetic acid is 
governed by the following equilibrium equation : — 

[m]x[c,H,o,-] _K 

[HCaHjOj] 

Since a molar solution of acetic acid is ionized to the extent 
of 042 %, we have, substituting in the above equation, 

0.9958 

If to this solution we add i mole or 82 g. of NaCgHgOj per 
liter, the salt being 53 per cent, dissociated, the concentration 
of the CjHbOj ions would be increased to 0.0042 + 0.53 = 0.5342. 
if we substitute this value in the above equation, we get 

' ^ liM which is no longer equal to the equilibrium con- 

0.9958 

stant 0.000018, and as a consequence the equilibrium will be 
disturbed. The equilibrium can be restored only by an adjust- 
ment of the values of the terms of the fraction. The denomina- 
tor in the original equation for normal acetic acid when present 
alone (0.9958), is so near its maximal value that any increase 
in its magnitude (its highest possible value is i) due to a com. 
bination of some of the H* and CjHgOj" — to form undissociated 
HCjHjOa — will be negligible. We therefore need only consider 
the concentrations of the ions in restoring equilibrium. The 

new value for the concentration of the C»H.Oa~ ions is - °'^34 
^ * ' 0.0042 

or 126 times as great as it was originally, and therefore to re- 
store equilibrium, the other factor, the concentration of the 
liydrogen ions, must be reduced to y^ of its initial value ; i.e.. 



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i6 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

it will be reduced to -j^^ x 0.0042 = 0.000034. The net effect 
of adding to a weakly dissociated acid a salt with an ion in 
common is to reduce the concentration of the hydrogen ions or 
to repress the ionization of the acid. A similar effect is pro- 
duced when a salt with a common ion such as NH^Cl is added 
to a weak base, such as ammonium hydroxide. The original 
concentration of the OH ions will be reduced by virtue of an 
increase in the concentration of the NH^ ions. 

Solubility Product. In a saturated solutioa of AgCI equilib- 
rium will be represented by the following equation : — 

it^0El-k or [Agt] X [C1-] = * X [AgCl]. 

But since in a saturated solution [AgCl] is a constant, we may- 
write the above equation in the form [Ag+] x [C1-] = K. 

This equation states that for a saturated solution of a diffi- 
cultly soluble electrolyte, the product of the concentrations of its 
ions is a constant for a given temperature. This product is 
called the solubility product* 

With sparingly soluble electrolytes such as AgCl and BaSO^, 
the dissociation of the dissolved substance may be regarded as 
complete so that the concentration of the ions will be equal to 
the solubility. An example will make this clear. The solubil- 
ity of AgCl has been found to be 0.0000106 moles per liter. 
The solubility product will be therefore (0.0000106).^ 

The application of the principle of the solubility product 
to precipitation may be stated as follows : Whenever the 
product of the concentrations of the ions, which by their 
union are capable of forming an insoluble substance, is 
greater than the solubility product of that substance, pre- 
cipitation takes place. Conversely, when this product of the 
ionic concentrations is less than the solubility product of the 
insoluble substance, the latter, if present, will dissolve until 
this value is reached. 



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\ ■^•' 



INTBODVCTION 17 

lUustraHons. An aqueous solution of H,S behaves as a 
weakly dissociated add. The equilibrium equation is 

[H^-]'x[S--] _,^. 
[H,S] 

The addition of HCl to the solution will have the effect of in- 
creasing [H+] and will correspondingly diminish [S~ ~] (common 
ion effect). Now if a solution of a copper salt to which some 
HCl be added f is treated with HjS, a precipitate is thrown 
down. The formation of a precipitate is due to the fact that 
the solubility product of CuS is exceedingly small and that in 
spite of the repression of the ionization of the H^S by the free 
HCl, the greatly diminished concentration of the S ions is still 
sufficient to yield with the Cu ions a value greater than the 
solubility product of CuS. On the other hand, if a zinc solu- 
tion containing the same concentration of HCl be treated with 
HjS, no precipitate of ZnS is obtained. The reason for this is 
that although the solubility product of ZnS is quite small, being 
much larger than that of CuS, the diminished concentration of 
the S ions occasioned by the presence of the HCl is far too low 
in value to cause the solubility product of ZnS to be exceeded, 
however great the concentration of the Zn ions may he. If, 
however, the solution be rendered alkaline, a precipitate of ZnS 
is at once obtained. The addition of the base not only neutral- 

* Hjrdiogea inlphide being a dibasic acid in tolatioii ionizes u follows : — 

H^:?;h+ + HS-; (I) 

HS-5?H* + S— . (a) 

Tbe eqmUbriam cqaationi for (i) and (3) ire 

[H+] X [HS-] [Ht]x[S— ] _. 

[H,^ ^ [HS-] -** 

Hultipljiiig these two equations together and cancelling, we get 

[H«].x[S-] ^ 

[H^] 1 - -^ 

which is the equation ^ren above. 

12.5 cc. cone. HCl in a volume of loO cc. of solution is a tnitable concentration. 



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l8 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

izes the HCl present, thus causing an increase in the concentra- 
tion of the S ions, but the HjS itself is converted into an alkali 
sulphide whose degree of dissociation is vastly greater than that 
of H^S, This enormous increase in the concentration of the S 
ions accounts satisfactorily for the fact that in an alkaline solu- 
tion the precipitation of zinc as sulphide by HjS is quantitative. 

By an application of the principles involved in the solubility 
product and the " common ion e£Eect," the student will readily 
comprehend why an excess of the reagent is required to effect 
a maximum precipitation of an ion. For example, in the pre- 
cipitation of silver ions, it is customary to add an excess of chlo- 
rine ions. The latter will reduce the concentration of the silver 
ions to a negligible quantity and thus afford a practically com- 
plete precipitation. 

The solubility of CaCjO^ in an excess of HCl may be explained 
from the standpoint of the ionic theory and solubility product 
principle as follows : Experiment shows that oxalic acid is a 
weakly dissociated acid ; hydrochloric acid, on the other band, 
is a strongly ionized acid. In consequence of this difference, 
the tendency, where the ions of both acids are in solution, will 
be for the weakly dissociated acid to form. In the case under 
consideration, some of the hydrogen ions from the HCl will 
unite with some of the CjO^ ions derived from the CaCjOj in 
solution, to form the weakly dissociated oxalic acid. The re- 
moval of CgO^ ions from the solution will cause the product of 
the concentrations of the Ca and €,04 ions in solution to fall 
below the solubility product of CaC204. In consequence more 
CaCj04 will go into solution in order to restore equilibrium ; and 
this process of the removal of C^0^ by the H ions, and the solu- 
tion of the CaCjOj, will go on until all the CaCjO^ is dissolved. 
The reaction may be represented as follows : — 

Ca++ + CjO,-- + 2 H- = HaCaOj -H Ca++ 

Hydrolysis. While the concentrations of OH and H ions in 
water is exceedingly small, there being only ■nnju'innnr ^^ * 
mole for each of these ions in a liter of water, they must be 
taken into account in dealing with the behavior of solutions of 



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INTRODUCTION 19 

salts formed by the imion of a weak base with a strong acid, 
and vice versa. Thus the student has already become familiar 
with the fact that aqueous solutions of Na,COg and KCN possess 
an alkaline reaction, while solutions of FeClg and CUSO4 are 
acid to htmus. In the 'former case the reaction is due to the 
presence of OH ions, while in the latter case the acidity is occa- 
sioned by the presence of H ions in solution. 

When potassium cyanide is dissolved in water, it dissociates 
to a considerable extent into K and CN ions. We have, there- 
fore, in solution for the moment K+ CN~ H"*", and OH". Now 
on encountering the CN ions, the H ions will combine with 
them, forming the very feebly dissociated acid HCN. The 
removal of H ions from the solution will cause more water to 
dissociate into H and OH ions ; the former will again be taken 
up by more CN ions, and this process will continue until the 
equilibrium constant for HCN is reached, i.e., until 

[H^xECN-] 
[HCN] 

The removal of the H ions from the solution will result in the 
accumulation of OH ions, and these will give to the solution its 
alkaline reaction. The reaction may therefore be represented 
as follows : — 

K+ + CN- + H+ + OH- = HCN + K++ OH" 

It is evident that the OH ions will not combine with the K 
ions for the reason that KOH, even if formed, would be largely 
dissociated in aqueous solution. 

By a similar process of reasoning it may be shown why an 
aqueous solution' of FeCIg possesses an acid reaction. In this 
case, the weakly dissociated base Fe(OH)s is formed, which 
removes the OH ions from the solution, thus causing an accu- 
mulation of H ions from the progressive dissociation of water. 
The final solution, therefore, will possess an acid reaction. We 
may define hydrolysis as the process by which a salt of a weak 
acid or base is decomposed into its corresponding acid and base 
by the action of water. 



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20 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Equations 
A chemical equation is a shorthand means of expressing a 
reaction. The equation 

BaCIj + HgSO^ = BaSO^ + 2 HCl 

gives us, first, the quahtative fact that when BaCl^ solution is 
treated with HjSOi, a precipitate of BaS04 is formed, together 
with hydrochloric acid; and, second, the quantitative relations 
between the substances reacting — namely, that 137 parts by 
weight of barium in solution will require 9S parts by weight of 
H^SO^ for its complete precipitation; or that (137 + 70) parts 
by weight of BaClj, when treated with 98 parts of HjSO^, yield 
(137 + 96) parts by weight of BaS04 and (2x36.5) parts by 
weight of HCl. 

In the case of gases, equations give us, besides qualitative 

and quantitative relations, those of volume also. The equation 

COa + C = 2 CO 

states that when one volume of CO3 is reduced by the agency 
of carbon, two volumes of carbon monoxide are produced. 

Before writing an equation, we must first know the facts. 
True, we may reason by analogy and foretell a reaction, and at 
once write its equation ; but such equations are to be looked 
upon with doubt until verified by actual experimentation. 
Briefly, then, to write an equation, we must know the formulas 
of the substances entering into the reaction, sometimes called 
the factors and appearing on the left side of the equality sign, 
and also we must know one or more of the essential products. 
All of the latter need not be known; they can, with a little 
knowledge, be " worked out." It is a good plan to designate 
by means of an arrow pointing downward the formulas of 
insoluble substances and with an arrow pointing upward the 
formulas of gases ; e^g., a glance at the equation 

\ CaCOg + 2 HCaHgOa = CUfZ^^O^ + HaO + \ COj 
shows that CaCOg is a solid, that COg is a gas, and that the 
other substances are in solution. Any determined method. 



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INTBODVCTION 21 

however, will answer the purpose, and as a rule it is applied 
only to the products of a reaction. 

The Law of the Conservation of Weight states that during a 
chemical change there is no loss or gain In weight. From this it 
follows that the total weight of the factors must be equal to the 
total weight of the products. The Law of the Conservation of Ele- 
ments states the immutabiUty of the elements during chemical 
change. From the combination of these two fundamental laws 
of chemistry, it follows that in any cheviical equation, the satne 
number of combining weights of each element must appear on 
both sides. This last rule, with a knowledge of the formulas of 
the factors and products, suffices for the writing of an equation. 
One need not attempt to remember the coefhcients appearing 
in chemical equations, but should invariably work them out 
The method of doing this will be explained later in connection 
with the writing of a number of rather complex equations given 
under " Oxidation and Reduction." 

Types of Reactions 

Reactions may be classed under three heads, viz. synthesis, 
analysis, and metathesis. A synthetic reaction is one in which 
a compound is formed from its elements, or, in general, a more 
complex compound formed by the union of simpler ones, thus : — 

Hj + Clj = 2HCl; 
CaO+H,0 = Ca(OH),; 
Fe(CN), + 4 KCN = K^FeCCN),,. 

An analytical reaction is one in which some complex com- 
pound is broken down into its elements or into simpler com- 
pounds: for example: — 
*^ "^ NaCl = Na + Cl; 

CaCOg == CaO + CO,. 

A metathetical reaction is one in which there is an exchange 
of radicals ; these represent by far the largest number met with 
in qualitative analysis ; for example : — 



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22 QVAUTATtVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

(a) AgNO, + HQ = I AgQ + HNOj ; 
(i) Cu(NOg),+ H^ = |CuS + 2HNO,; 
{c) BaCl, + HaSOi = | BaSO, + 2 HCl. 

Neutralization of bases by acids comes under this head. 
NaOH + HCl =■ NaCl + HjO ; 
NHjOH + HCjHgOa = NH^CaHgOa + HjO ; 
Ca(OH)j + HjSOi = I CaSO^ + 2 HaO. 

In some cases it is necessary to know the conditions under 
which the reaction takes place before the equation can be 
written; for example, if copper nitrate is mixed with dilute 
HaSOj, no apparent reaction takes place, but if the mixture is 
boiled till SOg fumes are given ofi, the following reaction 
occurs : — CuCNOg), + HaSO, = CuSO^ + f 2 HNO,. 
Similarly, on boiling, the following reactions will take place ; — 
NH^CI + NaOH - NaCi + f NHg + HjO, 
NaCl + H,S04= NaHSOj +t HCl ; 
for, at these temperatures, HCl, NHg, and HNO, are evolved as 
gases. 

In writing a complicated equation, it is convenient to consider 
the reaction as taking place in several stages ; • thus, when 
ammonium sulphide is added to ao aqueous solution of AlClg, 
a precipitate consisting of the hydroxide and not the sulphide 
is obtained, and at the same time the evolution of HjS takes 
plac?. This reaction becomes easily comprehended if we con- 
sider it as taking place in two stages, viz. : — 

(i) 2AlCl8 + 3(NH4)jS=AlaSe + 6NH4Cl; 

but as AlaSg does not exist in contact with water, it decomposes 
according to the equation 

(2) AlaS, + 6 HaO = 1 2 A1(0H)b + f 3 H^S. 

* Since we do not know what Ckuses chemical activitj, the ea^ mccbinism of a 
reaction to nDkoown and is peihapi unknowable; any device tending to elucidate 
or simplify a complicated reaction, it is believed, ibould be utilized, although experi- 
memtal proof for theic devices cannot alwap be lupphed. 



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INTBODVCTION 23 

ComlHning(i) and (2), and eliminating A1,S^ which appears 
on opposite sides of the equations, we get as the final equation 
2 AICl8+3(NH4),S+6 H,0-.^2 Al(OH)8+6 NH,Cl+f 3 H^S. 
Still more complicated equations will be met with which can 
be readily written, if first resolved into two or more single equa- 
tions, and the latter are then combined into one equation with 
the elimination of c 



Oxidation and Reduction 

Oxidation niay be defined as a chemical change in which oxy- 
gen or some other electro-negative element or radical is added, 
or hydrogen or some other electro-positive element or radical 
is removed. Redaction is the reverse process. The substance 
which effects the oxidation is called the oxidizing sgeaX; and 
that causing the reduction is called the redaclng agent. A con- 
sideration of the following examples will make the matter 
clear: — 

Oxidation : 

(i) 2FeO-«-0 = Fea08; 

(2) FeCl3 + Cl=FeCl8; 

(3) 2 FeS04 + HaSOi -I- Br, -= Fe3(S04)s + 2 HBr ; 

(4) SnCl, + 2 HgCla = SnO, + 1 2 HgCl. 

Reduction : 

(5) CuO-«-Hj=Cu-(-HjO; 

(6) 2 FeCIg -f- SnCIa « 2 FeCl, -f SnCl^ ; 

(7) Fe,(S0i)8 + H, • = 2 FeSOi + HaSO, ; 
(S) 2 HgCl, + SnCla = 1 2 HgCl -I- SnCl,. 

The first four equations represent oxidation reactions, for in 
each case oxygen or some other electro-negative element or 
radical has been added. The last four are types of reduction 
processes, for in each case oxygen or some other electro-nega- 



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24 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

tive element or group has been removed. If we leave out of 
consideration those simple cases of oxidation and reduction in 
which there ia a. direct addition of the oxidizing or reducing 
agent with the production of a single product, as in (i) and (2), 
and carefully examine the others, we find that in every case 
oxidation is accompanied by reduction, the oxidation of one 
substance always involving the reduction of another; thus, in 
example (4), the oxidation of SnClj has been accomplished at 
the expense of the HgCIj, which has been reduced at the same 
time to HgCI. In (5) the reduction of CuO has been simultane- 
ous with the oxidation of H to HjO, Similarly, in (6) the reduc- 
tion of FeClg has been accompanied by the oxidation of SnCl^ 
to SnCl,. 

Further examination of the above eight examples of oxidation 
and reduction shows that oxidation is accompanied by an increase 
in valence, while in reduction reactions, a lowering of valence 
is observed; thus, in (4) the valence of Sn has been increased 
from 2 tQ 4, while at the same time the valence of Hg has been 
lowered from 2 to I. In genera/, we may say that any reaction 
in which there is an increase in valence is one of oxidation, 
while a reaction in which there is a lowering of valence is one 
of reduction. 

Oxidizing Agents 

The principal oxidizing agents are: oxygen, the halogens, 
HNOj, agua regia, KClOg, Yif.xp^, KMnO,, Na,Oa, HjOjp 
and PhOa- 

The chief reducing agents are : nascent H, SnClj, H^S, HaSO, ; 
and, at elevated temperatures, C, KCN, and organic matter. 

The halogens either add directly ( i ) ; or else may be regarded 
as oxidizing the acid by removing the H, setting free the acid 
radical, which then adds on (2) ; or with bases by removing the 
metal and thus leaving the hydroxyl radical (OH) to add on (3). 
Examples of such changes follow. 

(i) FeClj + Cl=.FeCl,; 

(2) 2 FeSO^ + HaSO, + Clj = ^^SO^ + 2 HCl ; 

(3) Fe(OH),+ KOH + Cl = Fe(OH)g + KCl. 



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lUTFDDVCTION 25 

Nitric acid acts as an oxidizing agent by virtue of its ready 
decomposition according to the equation 

2 HNOJ = 2 NO + H,0 + 3 O. 

From this it is evident that 2 fonnular weights of HNO3 yield 
3 combining weights of O. The liberated O may be regarded 
as acting indirectly in the same way as CI ; that is, by oxidizing 
the H of the acid and liberating the acid radical, which then 
adds on, thus : — 

(i) 2HNOa=2NO + HiO + 30; 

(2) 3 HaSO^ + 3 Or= 3 HjO + 3 SO,. 

Since 2 formular weights of FeSO^ require one SO4 for com. 
plete oxidation, and since 3 SO4 radicals are made available by 
2 HNOg, it follows that 2 formular weights of HNOg will oxidize 
SFeSO,, to wit: — 

(3) 6 FeSOi + 3 SO4 = 3 Fe^CSOiV 

Adding (i), (2), and (3), and eliminating the factors appear- 
ing on both sides in the equations, as 3 O and 3 SO4, the final 
equation becomes — 

6 FeSOi + 2 HNOg + 3HJSO4 = 3 Fcj(S04)8 + f 2 NO + 4 H,0. 

Aqua regia is not only a good solvent but is also an excellent 
oxidizing agent. Its action is practically the same as that of CI. 
It is prepared by mixing i part of HNOg with 3 parts of HCl. 
When heated alone, it is said to yield NOCl and CI, according 
to the equation 3 HCl + HNOg = NOCI + Clj + 2 HaO ; but in 
the presence of an oxidizable substance all of the CI is available, 
so that the equation with aqua regia may be written as follows : — 

3CoS + 6HCl+2HN08 = 3CoCl,4-2NO + 4HaO+ + 3S. 

If the action of aqua regia on a sulphide is long continued, the 
liberated S will be partially or entirely oxidized to H2SO4 : -~ 

S-l-6C] + 3HaO = SOa + 6HCl; 
SOj + H,0 = HaSO^. 



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26 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Potassium chlorate, KCIOg, when used in conjunction with 
HCl, is a powerful oxidizing agent In effect it is similar to agtta 
rtgia and chlorine, as the following equations will indicate: — 
(i) 2KaOa + 2HCl = 2HC10B + 2KCl; 

(2) 2 HClOg = H,0 + 2 ClOj + O ; 

(3) 2HCl+.0 = HjO + Clj. 
Adding (i), (2), and (3), we get the following : — 

2 KClOs + 4 HCl = 3 KCl + 2 HjO + 2 ClOj + CI,. 

Potassium dichromate, KgCr^Oy, contains the acid anhydride 
CrOg; its composition may be represented by the formula 

2 CrOg + KjO. As 2 CrO, will, on reduction, yield CrjOg + 3 O, 
it is evident that one formular weight of KjCrjO^ possesses the 
same oxidizing power as two formular weights of HNOg, both 
yielding 3 combining weights of O. We therefore obtain the 
following equation for the oxidation of ferrous sulphate by 
KaCraO^ : — 

6 FeSOi + KjCrgO, + jtHjSO, = 

3 FejCSOA + KjSO^ + Cr^SO,)s + 4rH,0. 
The reduction of 2 CrOg to CrjOg leaves the latter, as well as 
K3O, behind. These basic oxides readily dissolve in HjSO^ with 
the formation of sulphates which appear in the above equation. 
The amount of HjSOj needed to balance the above reaction 
may be calculated from the following considerations : Cr^Og 
requires 3 formular weights of HaSO^ for its solution ; KjO 
requires I, thus making a total of 4. In addition to this quan- 
tity, we must consider the amount necessary to react with the 

3 combining weights of O derived from the 2 CrOg ; this will 
require 3 more HjSOj, making the total 7, which becomes the 
coefficient of H^SO^ in the above equations. We should also 
have 7 HjO in the right-hand member of the equation for a 
reason which must be evident to the reader. 

Potassium permanganate, KMnO^, behaves in acid solution as 
K,0 + 2 MnO + 5 O = 2 KMnO.; 
that is, 2 KMnO| yields 5 combining weights of O. 



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INTRODUCTION 27 

The equatioQ for the oxidatioa of ferrous sulphate by KM11O4 
may be written from the following considerations: 5 combin- 
ing weights of O will liberate 5 SO4 radicals ; but as one SO^ 
suffices for the oxidation of 2 FeSO^, it is evident that 2 KMnOf 
will oxidize 10 FeSO^, and we get the equation — 

2 KMnO^ + 10 FeSOj + S HjSO^ = 

5 FejCSO^)^ + 2 MnO + K,0 .+ 5 HaO. 
However, KjO and 2 MnO readily dissolve in HjSO^ with the 
formation of sulphates ; three additional fonnular weights of 
HgSOf must therefore be added to the above equation, together 
with 3 formular weights of water produced by the solution of 
the oxides in the acid. The final equation becomes — 

2 KMnO^ + 10 FeSO, + 8 HjSO, = 

5 Fej(S04)8 + 2 MnSO, + K3SO, + 8 H,0. 

Sodium dioxide, Na^Og, acts as an oxidizing agent by virtue 
of its instabiUty in water or when it is heated in the presence 
of an oxidizable substance in consequence of which it gives off 
oxygen : — ^^q^ + HaO = 2 NaOH + O. 

A solution of hydrogen dioxide, HaOa, also serves as an oxidiz- 
ing agent for the same reason ; — 

HjOa = HjO + O. 

Na,Oa is, however, preferable to HjO,, for the latter can 
only be safely* used in diluted fotro (3 9&), while the fonner 
can be used in any concentration. NajO^ has the further ad- 
vantage of supplying at the same time sodium hydroxide. For 
oxidatioc in alkaline media, therefore, Na^Oj is the better reagent. 

Lead dioxide, PbOg, like NajOj, yields O according to the 
equation — p,jQ^ ^ pi,Q ^ q 

It is employed to effect oxidation in acid media, as in the 
conversion of MnO to HMnO^; the PbO is converted by the 
excess of acid present into a salt 

* A 30% solotiaD hu recently become rerf ntefnl in the Uborator;, egpecially in 
the bandi of eipericnced chemiiU. We regaid the above lUtement at paiticnlulr 
applicable to Rndent woik. 



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a8 QUAUTATIVB CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Reducing Agents 

Any oxidizable substance can be utilized as a reducing agent, . 
since, in order to reduce, it must be capable of oxidation. 

Nascent H • acts as a reducing agent by either adding itself 
directly (i) or by its ability to unite with, and thus remove, the 
halogens contained in the compound (2): — 

(1) As + 3H=AsH8; 

(2) HgCla + 2H = |Hg + 2Ha 

Nascent H may be prepared by the action of an acid or alkali 
on certain metals : — 

Zn + HjSOj = ZnSO, + 2 H ; 

Zn + 2 NaOH = Na^ZnOa + 2 H ; 

Al + 3 NaOH = NajAlOa + 3 H. 

Nascent H may therefore be employed in both add and alkaline 
media. 

Stannous chloride, SnCl,, acts as a reducing agent, preferably 
in an acid solution, by virtue of the ease with which it readily 
oxidizes to SnCl4 : — 

SnCla + 2 HgCla = SnCl^ + |2 HgCl ; 

SnClj + 2 FeClg = 2 FeCla + SnCl, ; 

HgAs04 + 2 HCl + SnOa = HjAsOg + HaO + SnClj. 

Hydrogen sulphide, HjS, by virtue of the readiness with which 
it decomposes into H and S is a reducing agent The hydrogen 
acts as nascent hydrogen, while the sulphur separates out in the 
solid state. Nearly all oxidizing agents are reduced by H,S with 
the separation of sulphur, thus : — 

2 HNOa + 3 HaS = 4 HjO + 2 NO + 3 S. 
Hence, sulphides soluble in HNOg, like those of Fb, Bi, and Cu, 
do not liberate HgS, because the latter at once acts on the 

* Naicent H is used heie to designate tbe hydrogen which is fonncd when the 
acid and metal or alkali and metat are both in contact with the solution to be 
reduced. 



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INTSODUCTION 29 

excess of HNO) present with the liberation of S, as indicated 
in the equation above. Halogens, aqua regia, ferric salts, 
potassium permanganate, and chromates are also reduced by 
HgS with the separation of S, and, in some cases, with a change 
in color of the solution (see pp. 60-61). 

Sulphurous add, HjSOg, and the sulphites easily remove 
oxygen from compounds with the formation of sulphuric acid 
and sulphates respectively, thus : — 

HgAsO, 4- HjSOg = HgAsOg + HjSOj. 

While HgSOg is an excellent reducing agent for arsenic when 
in the pentavalent condition, it cannot be used in a complete 
analysis if the alkaline earths are known to be present, because 
of the formation of HjSOf as one of the products of the reduc- 
tion. The reduction of arsenic compounds with H^SOs is best 
accomplished in a pressure bottle at icX)° C. 

Carbon acts as a reducing agent by virtue of its ability to 
oxidize to CO and COj, thus : — 

CuO + C + (heat) == Cu + CO. 

The use of potassium cyanide, KCN, as a reducing ^ent in 
the *' dry way " depends upon its ability to take up O and 
formKCNO: — 

SnOa + 2 KCN - Sn + 2 KCNO. 

CLASSDFrcATION 

In the analysis of a solution for metals, it has been found 
-convenient to first separate them into groups by the use of cer- 
tain reagents known as group reagents. 

If to a solution containing all the metals in the form of salts 
we add a slight excess of dilute hydrochloric acid, a precipitate 
consisting of the chlorides of silver, mercury (-ous), and lead 
will form. These metals are classed together and designated as 
the first gronp. If, now, the precipitate of the chlorides of the 
first group is filtered off and the filtrate, which is acid from the 
«zce3s of HCl used, is treated with a stream of H,S gas, there 



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30 QVAUTATIVE CHSMICAL ANALYSIS 

will form a precipitate consisting of the sulphides of mercury 
(-ic), lead,* bismuth, copper, cadmium, arsenic, antimony, and 
tin. These metals are therefore classed together and col- 
lectively are known as the secood groap. If the filtrate from 
the second group is rendered alkaline with ammonium hydrox- 
ide,t and then ammonium sulphide is 'added, a precipitate 
of the hydroxides of aluminum and chromium, together with 
the sulphides of iron, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and zinc, will 
form. These constitute the third group. The filtrate from this 
group will contain an excess of NH^OH and some NH^Cl.t 
in addition to all the metals not included in the previous three 
gTQups. If to this filtrate we add ammonium carbonate in slight 
excess, a precipitate consisting of the carbonates of barium, 
strontium, and calcium will form ; these constitute the fourth 
group. . The final filtrate will contain all the other metals not 
precipitated by the previous group reagents; they are magne- 
sium, sodium, potassium, and ammonium, and these form the 
fifth group.} 

The division of the metals into groups is thus seen to depend 
upon their behavior, when in solution, towards certain reagents 
added in a certain order. If we were to use different reagents, 
the grouping would be different It is eqbally important to 
remember that the order of the addition of the reagents is as 
vital for the above classification as the choice of the reagents ; 
for if we were to reverse the order, — 'i.e., begin with NH^OH, 
then add (NH4)jC0g and then (NH4)jS, — we should get quite a 
different classification. It is furthermore to be noted that each 
reagent, taken in the order given, is capable of separating its 
own group from those which /c//i?w and not from those which 

* Since FbGi is somewhat soluble in water, some of it will pus into the filtrate 
&om Group I. and will be precipilated in the second group ai sulphide. Pb, there- 
foie, belongs to both groups. 

I When the solution which is acid with HO is rendered alkaline with ammonium 
hydioxide, NH|C1 fonns; the -presence of this salt prevents magnesiom from precipi- 
tating along with the metals of Group III. For the same reason, raagnesiam i« not 
thrown down in the fourth group. 

X The rarer metals are not considered in the text. %iecial treatises more or less 
elaborate are necessary when they are included. 



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mTBODVCTION 



31 



precede it in the regular order. Below is given in tabular form 
the separation of the metals into groups with the formulas of 
the compounds which are formed. 

Solution coataiuing all the metals in the fonn of salts. Add HO and filter. 



Precipitate: AgCl, 
Group I. 


FUtiate: Groups ll.-V. + excess HO ; pass in H^ 
and filter. 


H«S, f bS, 
Bi^, CuS, 
CdS.As^„ 
Sb^„ SuS. 
Group II. 


FUtrate: Gr«up8 III.-V. + HCI+H^; 
make alkaline with NH.OH, add 
(NHJjS and filler. 




Precipitate : 
Al(OH)a, 

Cr(OH)„ 
FeS, NiS, 
Cos, MnS, 
ZnS. 
Group III. 


Filtrate: Groups IV.- 
V. + NH4CI ; add 
(NHJjCO, and filter. 




Prec^ttate: 
BaCO» 
SrCO„ 
CaCO„ 

Group IV. 


PUtiate: 
contains 
Mg, Na, 
K, NH^. 
Group V. 



It is thus seen that — 

Group I. includes those metals whose chlorides are insoluble 
in water and in dUute acids, and are hence precipitated by HCL 

Group n. includes those metals which are not precipitated by 
HCl, but whose sulphides are precipitated by HjS in acid solu- 
tions. The sulphides are, therefore, insoluble in water and in 
dilute acids. 

Group UL includes those metals which are not precipitated 
either by HCl or HgS in acid solution, but are precipitated by 
{NH4)jS in solutions alkaline with NH^OH and in the presence 
of NHjCI. 

Group IV. includes those metals unprecipitated by the reagents 
of Groups I., II., III., but which are precipitated by (NHj)5,COg 
in the presence of NH^CL 

Group V. includes metals not precipitated by the reagents of 
Groups I.-IV. 



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PART I 

THE METALS 

Reactions of the Hetals of Gronp I 

The metals, silver, mercury (-ous), and lead, comprising this 
group, are distinguished from all others by the insolubility of 
their chlorides in water and in dilute acids. With the exception 
of the nitrates and acetates, which are colorless, nearly all the 
salts of the metals of this group are insoluble in water. 

Silver 
I. Hydrochloric add or a solnble chloride, when added to solu- 
tions of silver salts, gives a white, curdy precipitate of silver 
chloride (AgCl) which darkens on exposure to light. The pre- 
cipitate is insoluble in water, the solubility being approximately 
I part in 700,000 parts of water ; it is insoluble Ik dilute acids 
and in dilute aqua regia, but is somewhat solulMe in concen- 
trated acids. Ammonium hydroxide readily dissolves it, with 
the formation of silver ammonia chloride [Ag(NHg)^CI] : — 

AgCl + 2 NHa - Ag(NHa)aCl, 

from which AgCl reprecipitates on^idification with nitric acid : — 

Ag(NHB)aCl + 2 HNOg = i\gCI + 2 NH^NOa- 




Silver chloride also dissolves in solutions of potassium cya- 
nide and sodium thiosulphate; when cautiously heated, it fusea 
without decomposition. 

3. Hydri^en Sulphide and salable salpbides precipitate black 
AgjS, insoluble in cold dilute acids, alkali hydroxides, and alkali 
sulphides ; it is soluble in hot dilute HNOg, with the formation 
of AgNOg and separation of sulphur. The reaction can be con< 



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34 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

sidered as taking place in two steps, the first consistiiig of the 
solution of the sulphide with the Hberation of HjS and the 
second of the oxidation of the HjS by the excess of HNO, 
present with the formation of water, nitric oxide, and the sepa- 
ration of sulphur : — 

(i) Ag,S + 2 HN0g = 2 AgNOs+fHjS; 
(2) 2HNOa + 3HaS=4HaO+t2NO + |3S. 
Multiplying equation (i) by 3 and adding it to (2), with the 
elimination of 3 HjS, which appears on opposite sides, we get 
as a final result : — 

3 AgjS + 8 HNOa = 6 AgNOg + 4 H,0 + f 2 NO + +3 S. 

Other insoluble compounds of silver are: — 

AgBr — yellowish white ; Agl — pale yellow ; AgCN — 
white; AggO — brown. 

Silver is readily precipitated from its solutions by the more 
electro-positive metals, as Cu, Zn, Hg, and Fe, as well as by 
various reducing agents. 

Mercury (-ous) 
I. Hydrochloric acid and soluble chlorides give with solutions 
of mercurous salts a white precipitate of HgCl (calomel), in- 
soluble in water, the solubility being about i part in 300,cxx); 
it is insoluble in cold dilute acids, but dissolves in strong nitric 
acid and in a^tta regia, the latter oxidizmg it to HgCIj. Am- 
monium hydroxide converts calomel into a black mixture of 
finely divided mercury and NHgHgCI, insoluble in excess of the 
reagent (this is the most characteristic reaction for mercurous 
salts) : — ., , 

2ligCl + 2 NH8 = |(NH2HgCl-l-Hg)+NH^Cl. - 
The black mixture dissolves in aqi4a regia with the formation of 
mercuric chloride : — 

(1) NHaHgCl -«- 3 a = +N -(- 2 HCl-J- HgClj; 

(2) Hg+2Cl=HgGV 
Adding (i) and (2), we get 

NHaHgCI+Hg+5Cl = 2HgCla++N-!-2HCL 



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THE METALS 35 

2. Hydrogen Sulphide gives with solutions of mercurous salts 
a black precipitate consisting of a mixture of mercuric sulphide 
and elementary mercury; it may be assumed that the mercurous 
sulphide which forms first, decomposes on account of its insta- 
bility, thus; — 

2 HgCl + HjS = I HggS + 2 HO; 
HgaS = + HgS + |Hg. 

3. Reducing Agents, as FeSOj or SnClj, rapidly reduce mer- 
curous salts to metallic mercury: — 

SnCla + 2 HgCl =» SnCl^ + + 2 Hg. 

Lead 

1. Hydrochloric add and soluble chlorides give with solutions 
of lead salts, which are not too dilute, a white precipitate of 
PbCl,, soluble in roo parts of Cold and 25 parts of boiling water; 
from the latter on cooling, PbCla separates out in the form of . 
needles. PbCl^ is much more insoluble in dilute HCl than in 
water. Ammonium hydroxide changes it to a basic chloride 
[Pb(OH)Cl] which is extremely insoluble in water. 

2. Dilate sulphuric add and soluble sulphates precipitate white 
PbSOf which is practically insoluble in H,0 (i part in about 
30,000), but much more insoluble in the presence of dilute 
HgSOf or alcohol. It is soluble to some extent in HNOg, and 
is completely soluble in fixed alkalies and in a hot strong solu- 
tion of NHjCjHgOa; from these solutions PbSO^ is repredpi- 
tated on adding HjSOj. 

3. Potassium Chromate (KgCrO^) precipitates yellow lead 
chromate, readily soluble in sodium hydroxide, but insoluble in 
NH4OH and acetic acid: — 

PKCaH80a)a + KjCrO^ = | PbCrO^ + 2 KCjHaO,. 

4. Hydrogen Sulphide from slightly acid solutions of lead salts 
precipitates black PbS. In the presence of much HCl, H^S 
either faib to predpitate or else produces a red insoluble com- 



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36 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

pound of the formula FbCl, ■ 2 PbS; the latter is converted into 
black PbS by treatment with (NH4)jS or by diluting the solu- 
tion and passing in more HgS. Lead sulphide is insoluble in 
dilute acids, alkali hydroxides, and alkali sulphides. Hot dilute 
HNOj dissolves it with the formation of the nitrate and separa- 
tion of sulphur. Hot concentrated HNO3 oxidizes it to sul- 
phate. 

PKNOb), + HjS = + PbS + 2 HNOy 

With dilute HNO, this reaction occurs: — 

3 PbS + 8 HNO,= 3Pb(NO,)a + + 2NO-l-|3S + 4HaO.« 

With concentrated HNOg, the reactions may be represented 
by the following equations: — 

(i) PbS-»-2HN0j = |PbS04-|-2N0-HHj; 
(2) 2HN08+3Ha = 2NO-|-4HjO. 

Multiplying (i) by 3 and adding it to (2) with the elimination of 
3 Ha, we get — 

3 PbS -1- 8 HNO3 = 1 3 PbSOj -f- f 8 NO -H 4 H,0. 

In a neutral solution containing i part of Pb in 100,000 parts 
of water, H^S will distinctly reveal its presence. HjS is, there- 
fore, an exceedingly sensitive reagent for the detection of Pb. 

5. Sodliun or Potasslom Hydroxide precipitates white Pb(OH),, 
soluble in excess : — 

PbCCaHgOa), + 2 NaOH = | Pb(OH)j + 2 NaCjHgOj; 
I Pb(OH)j + 2 NaOH = Na,PbO, -|- 2 HjO. 

6. Ammonium Hydroxide precipitates a basic salt, insoluble 
in excess. 

Other difficultly soluble compounds of Pb are: — 
Pblj — yellow; PbBrj — white; PbSO^, — white; basic car- 
bonate — white, 2 PbCO, ■ PbCOH)^ ; PbCgO^ — white. 

* RcMJvsble into two (tcpi, •> in the cue of the tolntion of AgiSin H{fO(. 

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THE METALS 37 

GROUP I 
OatUne of tlie Process of Analysis 

An examination of the foregoing reactions shows that all the 
metals of this group may be precipitated by HCI. By filtering 
off this precipitate, we should have on the filter a mixture con- 
sisting of the chlorides of Ag, Hg {-ous), and Pb. In order 
to identify the components oif this mixture, it is first neces- 
sary to effect their separation ; this can be accomplished by 
taking advantage of the difference of their behavior towards hot 
water and ammonium hydroxide. PbClj is completely soluble 
in hot water, while the others are practically insoluble. It is 
thus possible, by treating the mixed chlorides with a suflicjent 
' amount of hot water, to dissolve, or extract, the PbClg. If the 
quantity of Fb is large, the hot aqueous extract on cooling 
will deposit the characteristic needles of FbClg, and thus the 
• presence of Pb may be proved. If the amount is small, the 
water extract will require further testing to prove that it con- 
tains Pb. The tests with H3SO4 and K^CrO^ will prove conclu- 
sively whether or not lead has been extracted and therefore its 
presence in the original solution. 

Having extracted all the Pb, the residue on the filter may 
consist of the chlorides of Ag and Hg. These can be readily 
separated by reason of the solubility of the former in ammo- 
nium hydroxide ; so that on treating the residue on the filter with 
this reagent we should obtain a filtrate and a residue. The 
former (if Ag is present) will contain the Ag in the form of 
Ag(NH))]Cl, which, on acidification with HNOg, will yield a 
white precipitate of AgCl. 

While ammonium hydroxide dissolves AgCl, it offers at the 
same time an indication of the presence or absence of Hg ; for 
the latter in the form of chloride is blackened by the reagent. 
To confirm the presence of Hg, the black residue is taken into 
solution with aqua regia, whereby it is converted into HgClg, 
and the latter is then tested for with SnCl,. A white precipitate 
of HgCl or a gray precipitate of mercury (see this reaction 
under Hg) proves the presence of Hg in the original solution. 



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QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



To the clear original solution contained in a smaU beaker, add 
dilute HCl drop by drop with constant stirring until no further 
precipitation takes place (i)"; add 2 cc, more in excess and 
filter. If no precipitate forms, the absence of Ag, Hg (-ous), 
and large amounts of Fb (2) is indicated ; in that case treat the 
solution with HjS in accordance with directions given on page 62. 
■^ The filtrate should be caught in a beaker of at least 150 cc. 
capacity, labeled Groups II.-V., and reserved. The precipitate 
is first washed with 2 cc. of dilute HCl {3), and finally with a 
stream of cold water from a wash bottle. Reject the washings. 
The precipitate may contain PbCl^ AgCl, and HgCl. 

Pour through the filter holding the precipitate several small 
portions of hot water, using about 2 cc. at a time and allowing 
each portion to drain before adding the next Divide the 
aqueous extract into two equal portions, and test it for Pb by 
adding to the first portion dilute HgSOf — a white precipitate is 
PbSOj ; to the second portion add K^CrOj — a yellow precipi- 
tate is PbCrOj and confirms the presence of Pb. If no precipi- 
tates are obtained, Pb is absent from Group I. 

Repeatedly wash the precipitate on the filter paper with hot 
water until the washings no longer react with dilute H^SOf. 
The residue on the filter may now consist of AgCl and HgCl. - 
Pour a few drops of ammonium hydroxide on the filter and 
catch the liquid passing through in a test tube. Repeat until 
about 1 5-20 drops have been used. A blackening of the residue 
on the filter indicates the presence of Hg. The ammoniacal 
extract, if not clear (4), should be passed again through the 
same filter and tested for Ag by acidifying with HNOg (5). A 
white precipitate or cloudiness proves the presence of silver (6). 

To confirm the presence of Hg, remove (7) as much as pos- 
sible of the black precipitate remaining on the filter to a small 
evaporating dish, add 1-2 cc. of aqua regia {Z'){\^ drops of con- 
centrated HCl to 5 drops of concentrated HNOg), and heat 
under the hood on wire gauze until dissolved; boil. to destroy 
the excess of aqua regia (9), dilute with i cc. of water, filter(ioX 
* Tbe nnatben in btaduti taa to notei. 



'\1 



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.^ TEE METALS 39 

if Qecessqgjtand test the clear solution for Hg by adding a few 
drops of nblg. A white precipitate, vhich may turn gray to 
black, confirms the presence of Hg. 



1. A white predpitate, when dilute HCl is used, may be dae to SbOCI 
or BiOO ; the latter, however, dissolves in excess of HCI. 

To insure complete precipitation, HQ must be added in slight excess ; this 
point is best ascertained by filtering a small portion of the mixture, and adding 
to the deal filtrate a drop oi two of HCl, when, if the predpitation was com- 
plete, no further predpitate will be obtained ; if a predpitate does form, more 
HCl must be added to the wiginal solution until the test shows c<anplete pre- 
dpitation. A large excess of HCl is to be avoided on account of the appre- 
dable solubility of the chlorides in an excess. 

2. PbCl, is somewhat soluble in cold H,0, and irtiile the presence of 
HO diminishes its solubility, a small amount always remains unprecipitated 
by HCl and passes into the filtrate, from which it is predpitated by H^ in 
Group 11. One must therefore always loc^ for Pb in the second group. 

3. The predpitate is washed first with HCl, instead of H,0, to prevent the 
formation of the oxychlorides of Bi and Sb. It is then washed with H^O to re- 
move the HCI, which would interfere with the scdution of PbCl, in hot water. 

4- If all the Pb has not been extracted, it will be changed by ammonia 
to the insoluble basic compound Pb(OH)CI, which InJQuently passes through 
the filter. As this predpitate is soluble in HNO„ it does not interfere mth 
the test for Ag. 

5. In addifying a solution, it is imperative thoTOi^hly to mix the solu- 
tion after the addition of the add,and then to test it with litmus. A solution 
in a test tube can be mixed by pladng the thumb over the mouth of the tube 
and shaking. If the solution is contained in a beaker, Uiorough mixing is 
effected by stirring with a glass rod. 

6. A doudiness or turbidity Is as condusivc a reaction as the formation 
of a laige precipitate, provided the precaution is taken to sec that both the 
solution to be tested and the reagent are perfectly dear. It is important to 
remember that when the amount of Hg is large and that of silver relatively 
small, ammonium hydroxide may &il to extract any AgCl, owing to the &ct 
that the latter is reduced by the mercury of the blade mixture (NH,HgQ + Hg) 
to the metallic state : — , . '-i, 

2 AgQ -t- Hg = 3 Ag -H HgCI,. 
When, therefore, a large black residue is obt^ned with ammonium hydroxide, 
and the test for Agps negative, it becomes necessary to recover any Ag^e 
black mixture may contain after the treatment with aqua regia as described 
in note 10. 



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40 QUAUTATIVE CBEUICAL ANALYSIS 

1. When the precipitate is large, a small amount may be removed with s 
glass or horn spatula. If too small to be handled in this way, recourse may 
be had to one of the following methods : (a) The funnel containing the filter 
is held horizontally with its rim resting against the edge of an evaporating 
dish or beaker, and the predpitate is washed out by directing a forceful 
stream of water from a wash bottle against the filter, at the same time giving 
the funnel a rotary motion, (i) By carefiilly perforating the apex of the 
filter with a platinum wire and gradually enlarging the hole (in this way dog- 
ging of the stem with filter paper is avoided) ; the predpitate can then be 
readily washed out with a forcefiil stream of water from a wash bottle. In 
this case, as in (a), the ivattr should be cartfutty decanted after the precipitate 
has settled and then the predpitate should be treated with the solvent directed 
to be used, (c) Where the amount is very small and firmly adheres to the 
filter, it can be gotten into solution by the following procedure : Remove the 
filter from the funnel, close it up, and dry it by pressing it between the folds 
of several thicknesses of filter paper ; then unfold it, tear away portions to 
which no predpitate adheres, and spread the rest of the paper with the pre- 
dpitate uppermost on the bottom of an evaporating dish. Pour the solvent 
on the filter paper, heat, and stir with a glass rod till solution takes place ; 
dilute with a little water and filter off the paper. 

8. Aqwi regia should always be prepared in small amounts immediatelf 
before use, and the cold mixture brought in contact with the substance to be 
dissolved and then heated. In contact with a substance it is capable of dis- 
solving, it acts like CI, and as the latter is an ozidizing agent, the chlcnide 
formed will be that of the highest valence of the metal capable of existing 
under the conditions. 

9. Prolonged boiling has the effect of destroying aqua regia in atxmd- 
acce with the equation 

3 HCI + HNO, = NOCl + 2 H,0 + 2. 0. 
The excess must be destroyed because its presence would oxidize the SnCl, 
to SnCl,. As the latter does not react with HgClj, the test would be worthless- 
10. The solution is diluted because of the possible presence of AgCI, 
which is appreciably soluble in strong HCI. The residue, after filtration, is 
tested for Ag by first thoroughly washing it with H,0, dissolving it in ammo- 
ninm hydroxide, and repredpitating by addification with HNO^. 

Reactions of MetaU of Group IX. Division A 

Mercury in Mercuric Salts 
Most of the salts of mercury are colorless and poisonous. 
The aqueous solutions of the normal salts have an acid reaction 
due to hydrolysis ; they all volatilize on ignition. 



J^sV. 



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TBB METALS 41 

1. Potassium or Sodium Hydroxide gives a precipitate which 
at iirst is brownish but rapidly changes on further addition of 
the reagent to yellow HgO, insoluble in excess : — 

HgCla + 2 KOH = |HgO + 2 KCH- H,0. 

2. Ammonium Hydroxide produces in solutions of the mercu- 
ric chloride a white precipitate of mercuric amido-chloride ; from 
solutions of the nitrate, a white precipitate of mercuric amido- 
nitrate : — 

HgCL, + 2 NH4OH = INHjHgCl + NH^Cl + 2 HjO. 

3. Hydn^en Sulphide, on being passed slowly into a solution 
of HgClj, forms at first a white precipitate which changes on 
further treatment with H^S to a yellow, then brown, and finally 
to a black precipitate of HgS. These light-colored precipitates 
are mixtures of HgClj and HgS in varying proportions ; they 
are soluble in HNOg, and are converted by further treatment 
with HjS or with (NH4XS to black HgS : — 

3 HgCIa + 2 H,S = |(HgCl, ■ 2 HgS)+4HCl; 
(HgCl, . 2 HgS)+ HaS = 4.3 HgS + 2 HCl. 

HgS is insoluble in dilute HCl; also in hot dilute HNOg (differ- 
ence from the sulphides of Pb, Bi, Cu, and Cd). Prolonged 
boiling with strong HNOj converts it into the white compound 
2 HgS ■ Hg(NOB)j, which is quite insoluble in dilute HNOa- 
HgS is soluble in a^ua regia with the formation of HgCI^ and 
the separation of sulphur; it is practically insoluble in (NH4),S, 
but completely soluble in Na^S in the presence of sodium 
hydroxide. 

4. Stannous Chloride, added in small quantity to a solution of 
HgCIj, precipitates white HgCl, which is reduced by an excess 
of the reagent to black metallic Hg : — 

SnOa + 2 HgCIj = | 2 HgCl -t- SnCl*; 
2 HgCl + SnCIj = 1 2 Hg + SnGI^. 

5. Ketallic Cn, Zn, or Fe, when introduced into a solution of 
a mercuric salt, acidified, precipitates metallic Hg. 



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42 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

6. PotasBium Iodide yields a red precipitate of Hgl,, soluble 
in excess of the reagent or the mercury salt 

7. If a dry mixture or a mercuric salt and Na,COg is heated 
in an ignition tube, a sublimate of metallic Hg will be formed 
in the upper portion of the tube. 

Bismuth 
Nearly all the bismuth salts are white or colorless. The 
aqueous solutions always have an acid reaction, and if the dilu- 
tion is large, the salt is decomposed with the formation of an 
insoluble basic salt ; e.£: — 

BiClg + HjO :^ \ BiOCl + 2 HCl. 
This reaction is very characteristic of bismuth salts and is inter- 
fered with by the presence of much acid. Because of their 
tendency to hydrolyze with water, aqueous solutions of bismuth 
salts can only be prepared with the aid of an acid. 

1. Hydxogen Snlpbide precipitates black BijSj : — 

3 HjS + 2 Bids = \ BijSb + 6 HCl. 
The precipitate is insoluble in cold dilute acids, but dissolves in 
boiling dilute HNOg: — 

(i) Bi,S8+6HN08 = 2 Bi(N08)a + 3 HaS ; 
(2) 3H3S + 2HNOB = |2NO+4HaO + |3S. 
Adding (i) and (2), and eliminating 3 HgS, we get 

BiaSj + 8 HNOg = 2 Bi(NOg)8 + +2 NO + 4 Ha© + | 3 S. 
Bismuth sulphide is insoluble in (NH4)2Sj, 

2. Potasslimi, Sodium, or Ammonlam Hydroxide precipitates 
white Bi(OH),, insoluble in excess. Its insolubility in excess of 
NH4OH distinguishes it from Cu and Cd; the precipitate is 
soluble in dilute acids, however. 

3. Water, when added in large amount to Bi salts, precipi- 
tates white basic salts; the chloride gives |BiOCl, the nitrate' 
IBiONOg, and the sulphate KBiO)aS04. These are all soluble 
in dilute inorganic adds and are changed by HjS to BijSg : — 

2 BiOCl -H 3 HjS = ^BigSg -I- 2 HCl + 2 Hfi. 



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TBE UETALS 



4. Soditun Stannlte ta aUcallne solatlan (prepared by adding 
NaOH to SnClj till the precipitate which first forms dissolves) 
gives with bismuth solutioDS a black precipitate of metallic 



( 1 ) SnClj + 2 NaOH = \ Sn(OH)j + 2 NaCl. 

(2) Sn(OH)j + 2 NaOH = NajSnOa + 2 H,0 ; 

Sodlom aturalte 

(3) BiCls + 3 NaOH = \ Bi(OH)s + 3 NaCl, 

(4) 2 Bi(0H)8 + 3 Na^SnOj = 1 2 Bi + 3 HjO + 3 NajSnOs- 
5. Hetallic Zn or Fe, when added to a solution of a Bi salt, 

precipitates metallic Bi : — 

2 BiCla + 3 Zn = 3 ZnClj +■!■ 2 Bi. 

Copper 
Copper forms two classes of salts ; viz., the cuprous com- 
pounds, in which Cu is monovalent; and tlie cupric compounds, 
in which Cu is divalent. The former are very unstable, being 
readily oxidized to the cupric compounds ; they are insoluble in 
water, but are soluble in halogen acids with the formation of 
colorless solutions. The cupric salts, when dissolved in water, 
yield blue or green solutions which have an acid reaction. 

Reactions of the Cupric Salts 

1. Sodinm or Potasslam Hydroxide precipitates light blue 
Cu(OH)a, soluble in a lar^e excess of the strong reagent with 
the formation of a blue liquid. The precipitate is changed on 
boiling to black CuO. In the presence of sufficient tartaric, 
citric, or arsenic acid, NaOH fails to precipitate Cu salts^ 

2. Ammooium Hydroxide, largely diluted and added cautiously 
to solutions of copper salts, precipitates a light blue basic salt, 
readily soluble in excess, producing a deep blue solution, due to 
the formation of a cqpric ammonia salt : — 

CuSO^ + 2 NH.OH = I Cu(OH), + (NHi)i,SOi ; 
Cu(OH)j + (NH4)sS04 + 2 NH, = Cu(NHg)4SO, + z H,0. 



Deep bine ■nliuloB 



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44 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

When CuClg is used, the blue compouad formed with an excess 
of NHj is Cu(NHg)4C]5. The sensitiveness of the test is i part 
in 25,000; it therefore is an exceedingly good test except for 
traces of the metal 

3. Hydiogen Stilphide produces in Cu solutions a black pre- 
cipitate of CuS which is insoluble in dilute acids and alkalies, 
insoluble in sodium sulphide, but somewhat soluble in ammonium 
sulphide, especially if the latter is yellow and hot ; it is insoluble 
in hot dilute HjSOi (distinction from Cd). When freshly pre- 
cipitated, CuS is easily soluble in KCN solution; it is also 
soluble in hot dilute HNOg with the separation of S : — 

3 CuS + 8 HNO3 = 3 Cu(N08)j + 4 HaO +f 2 NO + 1 3 S • 
When exposed to the air in moist condition, CuS oxidizes to 
CuSO^. 

4. Potassiom Cyanide produces a yellow precipitate of 
Cu(CN)j, which immediately decomposes into white cuprous 
cyanide (CuCN) and cyanogen ; on adding an excess of the 
reagent, the precipitate dissolves, with the formation of a com- 
plex cyanide pf K and Cu : — 

CuCla + 2 KCN = I Cu(CN)s + 2 KCl ; 

■ 2Cu(CN)a = '^2CuCN + (CN)j; 

CuCN -H 3 KCN = KbCu(CN)^ (potassium cuprous cyanide). 

From solutions of KgCu(CN)^, HjS does not precipitate 

CuS (distinction from Cd). If to the deep blue solution of 

Cu(NHg)4S04 potassium cyanide is added, the color will be 

bleached, due to the formation of K8Cu(CN)4: — 

(i) 2 Cu(NH8)4S04 -I- 4 KCN =|2 Cu(CN)a-|- 2 KaSOj+S NH,; 

(2) 2 Cu(CN)a = 1 2 CuCN + (CN)j ; 

(3) CuCN + 3 KCN = KjCu(CN)4 ; 

(4) (CN)j -»- 2 NH^OH = NH^CN + NHiCNO + HjO. 

5. Potassium Ferrocyanide precipitates reddish brown cupric 
f errocyanide : — 

2 CuSOj + K4Fe(CN)B = | CujFe{CN)s + 2 KaSO,. 
• Reiolvabk into 2 steps (lee PbS). 



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TBE METALS 45 

It is insoluble in dilute acids, but soluble in NH^OH with the 
formatioii of a blue solution. The reaction with KjFe(CN)g is 
by far the most sensitive test for Cu; with very dilute solutions, 
it gives a reddish brown coloration. The sensitiveness of the 
tests is I part in 200,000. 

6. Potassium Iodide yields with solutions of cupric salts a 
yellowish white precipitate of cuprous iodide (Cujlj); at the 
same time iodine is liberated and turns the solution brown : — 

2 CuCla + 4 KI = I Cujlj + 4 KCl + I,. 

7. a Amino Normal Caproic Add.* An aqueous solution of 
this compound when added to a solution of copper not too 
strongly acid yields a characteristic crystalline precipitate of 
copper a normal amino caproate. This is one of the most sen- 
sitive tests for copper and is capable of detecting 0.004 mg. of , 
copper with certainty. 

8. Certain organic substances, like glucose, reduce copper 
solutions with the precipitation of red Cu^O. The test is best 
carried out by adding to the copper solution KNaC^H^Qj 
(Rochelle salt) and NaOH, the latter bemg added until the 
resulting solution assumes a deep blue color. On boiling and 
adding a small quantity of glucose, a red precipitate of CujO is 
obtained. The reaction consists essentially of 

2 CuO + (reducing agent) = | Cu,0 + O. 

9. Many metals reduce solutions of Cu salts to the metallic 
state; e.g:, Zn, Cd, Al, Fe. If an iron naU is immersed in a 
solution containing a Cu salt slightly acidified with HCl, a bright 
deposit of metallic Cu is formed on the iron. As dilute a solution 
as I part in 120,000 of water will give this test. 

Cu salts, when ignited in the bunsen flame, impart to it a 
green color which is intensified if the Cu solution contains HCl. 

Cadmium 
The cadmium salts are for the most part colorless. The 
nitrate, chloride, sulphate, bromide, iodide, and acetate are 
soluble in water. 

•Lyie, Cwtnum and Manball, J. A. C. S., 37, (1915). i47i- 



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46 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

I. Potasslom or Sodlnm Hydroxide precipitates white 
Cd(OH)^ insoluble in excess. 

3. Anunonitim Hydroxide precipitates white Cd(OH)|, solu- 
ble in excess, forming complex ammonia salts: — 

Cdaa + 2NH40H = |Cd(OH)j + 2NH4a; 
Cd(OH)| + 2 NH^a + 2 NHb - Cd(NH,)4Cla + 2 HjO. 

. This ammonia salt, like the corresponding Cu salt, may be 
transposed to the double cyanide, KjCd(CN)4, by a KCN 
solution. 

3. Hydn^en Sulphide precipitates, from solutions not too 
strongly acid, yellow CdS, insoluble in cold dilute acids, alkali 
hydroxides, and (NHj)jS; and insoluble in KCN (distinction 
from Cu). It is soluble in hot dilute HNOg with the separation 
of S (reaction similar to Pb, which see)^ and soluble in hot 
dilute HaSO^ (difference from Cu). 

From hot slightly acidulated solutions, H^S precipitates red 
CdS. 



L Cyanide yields a white precipitate, Cd(CN)^ 
soluble in excess, with the formation of KjCd(CN)4, from which 
HjS precipitates CdS (distinction from Cu): — ■ 

CdCla + 2 KCN = | Cd(CN)j + 2 KCl; 
Cd(CN)a + 2 KCN = K,Cd(CN)4; 
KaCd(CN)4 + H,S = + CdS + 2 KCN + 2 HCN. 

Reactions of the Uetals of Group H. Division B 

Arsenic 
Arsenic forms two series of compounds. Those in which it 
plays the r61e of a trivalent metal are known as the arsemous 
compounds; and those in which the metal is pentavalent are 
known as the arsenic compounds. The two oxides AsgOg and 
AsgO, are respectively the anhydrides of arsenious (HgAsOg) 
and arsenic (HgAsO^) acids. 



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TBE METAIS 47 

RtactioHS of the Arsenious Compounds 
The arsenious compounds may be considered as derived from 
AsjOj. The latter, on treatment with boiling water, yields 
HgAsOg; the oxide also dissolves in alkalies with the formation 
of soluble alkali arsenites. All other arsenites are insoluble in 
water. 

AsjO, + 6 NaOH = 2 NagAsOg + 3 H,0. 

1. NaOH, NH^OH, NajCOa, HCl, and H,SO. do not pre- 
cipitate As from its compounds. 

a. Hydrogen Sulphide. From neutral solutions of arsenites 
or from aqueous solutions of AsgOg, HjS does aot precipitate 
the sulphide but colors the solution yellow, which is due to the 
formation of colloidal AsgSg : if, however, the solution is acidified 
with HCl, a yellow precipitate of As^Sg immediately forms : — 
2 HgAsOg + 3 H,S =. AsjSg + 6 HaO. 

The precipitate is insoluble in concentrated HCl (distinction 
from Sb and Sn), hence the presence of a large quantity of free 
add does not interfere with the precipitation with H^S. Con- 
centrated HNOg, aqua regia, or a mixture of concentrated HCl 
and KClOg readily oxidizes AsgSg to arsenic acid (HgAsOg — 
soluble in water) with the separation of S. Ammonium sulphide 
and alkali hydroxides both dissolve As^g (distinction from the 
sulphides of Division A). 

3 AsjS, + 10 HNOg -»- 4 HjO = 6 HgAsO, -I- j 10 NO -H |9 S. 

The action of aqua rtgia on As^Sg may be represented by the 
following equations : — 

AsaSg -I- 10 CI = 2 AsCl, -I- 1 3 S, 
2 AsClj -H 5 HjO = AsaOj + 10 HCl, 
AsjOb -t- 3 HjO = 2 HgAsO,. 

Adding these 3 equations, with the elimination of substances 
appearing on both sides, we get as the final result : — 

AsgSg + 10 Cl-H 8 H,0 =. z HgAsOg -J- lO HCl -I- 13 S. 



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4$ QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

The action of KCIO, + HCl may be represented thus : — 
KClOg + HCl - HCIOb + KCl ; 
HCl + HClOi = HjO + ClOj + CL 
It is evident that this mixture behaves somewhat like aqua regia. 
The deportment of KOH is as follows : — 

AsjSa + 6 KOH = KjAsOg + KgAsS, + 3 H,0. 
KgAsSg may be regarded as derived from potassium arsenite 
(KjAsOs). by replacement of the oxygen by S; hence it is 
called potassium thioarsenite. If this mixture of thioarsenite 
and arsenite is acidified with HCl, As^Sg is reprecipitated : — 
KgAsOa + KgAsSg + 6 HCl = 6 KCI + 3 HjO + 1 AsaSj. 
The equation for the solution of As^Sg in {NHj)gS is — 

AsjSg + 3 (NHJjS = 2 (NHjV^sS, (ammonium thioarsenite). 
If (NHj)jS, is used, we get ammonium thioarsenate : — 
As,S,+ 3(NH,),S. = 2(NH,),AsS, + (3x-5)S. 
The excess of S in the polysulphide oxidizes the thioarsenite 
to thioarsenate. The {zx— 5)8 does not separate out but dis- 
solves in the excess of (NH^^S, to form a higher polysulphide.' 
If the solution of As,Sg in (NH4)aSj is acidified with HCl, 
the As is reprecipitated as yellow AsjSj : — 

2 (NH4)8AsS4 + 6 HCl = + Aa,Sj + 6 NH,C1 + +3 HaS ; 
but as this solution always contains an excess of (NH4)tS;c the- 
following reaction will also take place simultaneously: — 
(NH,),S, + 2 HCl = 2 NH^Cl + 1 HjS + \ix - i)S. 

3. Sflver Nitrate precipitates from neutral solutions of arse- 
nites yellow silver arsenite, Ag,AsOg (distinction from arse- 
nates) : — 

KgAsOg -I- 3 AgNOg = \ AggAsOg + 3 KNO,. 
The precipitate is easily soluble in acids and alkalies. 

4. Magnesium mixture (solution of MgClaH- NH^Cl'+NH,) 
does not precipitate arsenites (difference from arsenates), 

5. Iodine in solutions rendered alkaline with NaHCOg readily 
oxidizes arsenites to arsenates : — 

NagAsO,+ Ij + 2NaHCO,= Na^04+2NaI-l-H,0-l-t2COr 



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THE METALS 49 

Special TMtf for the Detection of BUnnte AnMWinti of Arsenic 
I. Tlie so-called llanh Teat for arsenic and its modifications is liased on 
the fact that when arsenic compounds are introduced into a hydrogen generator 
(Zn + HjSOJ, the As compound is reduced to gaseous arsine (AsHJ, which 
escapes along with the excess of hydrogen. If the dried gases are led into a 
hard glass tube heated to redness, the arsine wiU be decomposed and a de- 
posit of metallic ai^enic will form in the tube just beyond the part heated. 
If the gases are ignited, they bum with a bluish white flame; if apiece of cold 
porcelain is held in this flame, it will receive a black coating which is readily 
soluble in a solution of sodium hypobromite (NaBrO) (distinction from Sb). 
In making this test, it is necessary to run what b called a blank to make sure 
that the apparatus and the reagents employed in the test are arsenic-free. This 
is accomplished by carrying out the test precisely as described, except that no 
arsenic compound is added ; and if the materials are arsenic-free, no mirror 
will be formed. Unless the results of this test are controlled by a blank, it can- 
not be considered trustworthy, for ordinary pure zinc and sulphuric acid, as 
well as glass tubing, usually contain sufficient arsenic to yield a positive result. 
For the detection of arsenic in wall paper as well as in reagents, medidna] 
preparations, and foods, the following tests are employed. The first two are 
modifications of the Marsh test; but all have the advantage over the Marsh 
test in that they are more rapid and require no special apparatus. 

3. The Ontxeit Test for arsenic depends upon the &ct that arsine color? a 
solution of silver nitrate (l : l) first yellow and finally black. To carry out 
this test, put in a test tube a few pieces of arsenic-free zinc and cover with 
about 3 cc. of dilute sulphuric acid. Place near the top of the tube a plug of 
cotton, stopper the lube with a loosely fitting cork which has been covered 
with 2 folds of filter paper moistened with AgNO, solution (1 : i), and allow 
to stand several minutes. If no darkening of the paper is produced, the blank 
is satisfactory. Now remove the plug and stopper, and introduce a very smalt 
amount of the solution or substance to be tested for arsenic. Replace the 
plug and stopper, and allow to stand again for several minutes. A yellow 
stain which quickly becomes black proves the presence of arsenic Fre- 
quently, especially with solutions of silver nitrate less concentrated than 1 ; I, 
the yeUow stage is not seen. The reactions involved are the following : — 

(1) 6 AgNO, + AsH, = I Ag^ ■ 3 AgNO, -I- 3 HNO, ; 

(2) Ag^ - 3 AgNO, -1- 3 H,0 = H^O, -I- 3 HNO,-f |6 Ag. 

Phosphine, stibinc, and hydrogen sulphide interfere with this reaction ; the 
last can t>e guarded against by moistening the cotton plug with lead acetate 
solution. Instead of AgNOg, HgO, may be used ; this yields a yellow stain. 

3. Fleltmann Test. As the Gutzeit test does not distinguish between arsenic 
and antimony, Fleitmann devised a method by which the arsenic alone can be 
detected. This consists in generating the arsine in an alkaline solution. 



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so QUAUTATIVB CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Method. Into a test tube place a small piece of arsenic-free Zn or Al ; 
cover with a few cubic centimeters of NaOH and heat to boiling to start the 
reaction, then remove from flame, add the arsenic solution, cap with stopper 
covered with paper mobtened with silver nitrate solution, and allow to stand ; 
a blackening proves the presence of arsenic. If the arsenic is in the pentad 
state, it should fiist be reduced with SO, bdbre applying this test. 

4. Bettendmiri Teat depends upon the fact that in a solution strongly add 
with hydrochloric add, stannous chloride reduces arsenic ccmpounds to 
metallic arsenic : — 

3 AsCl, + 3 SnOj = 3 SnCl, + ^ 2 As. 

The test b carried out as follows : To 3 cc. of concentrated HCl in a test 
tube, add i cc. of strong SnO, solution ; then add a few drops of the solution 
to be tested for As and heat gendy. A brown color or predpitate indicates 
the presence of arsenic. Antimony b not reduced under these conditions. 
The addition of a small piece of tin foil will have the effect of hastening the 
reaction, but must not be used if bismuth or antimony b known to be present. 

J. Belnach Tect. If a solution containing arsenic, to which \ of its bulk . 
of concentrated HCl has been added, b boiled with 3 strip of bright copper 
foil, the latter becomes coated with a gray deposit of copper arsenide (CujAsj) . 
If the foil is removed, washed, and dried between the folds of £lter paper, and 
then slowly and carefully heated in a dry test tube, a white crystalline subli- 
mate of As,Oj wiU form ; the latter can readily be recognized by examining 
with a lens or confirmed by dissolving in boiUng water and applying the 
Fleitmapn test. 

SeniltlTenesa of the Special Arsenic Tests 
Harsh test will detect i part of As in 200,000,000 

Gutzdt test will detect r part of As in 10,000,000 

Bettendorif test will detect i part of As is 7,000,000 
Reinsch test will detect i part of As in 40,000. 

Any solid substance containing arsenic, when mixed intimately 
with four times its weight of a mixture of KCN and Na,COg, 
and heated in an ignition tube, will yield a black mirror of 
metallic arsenic on the cooler part of the tube. The sensitive- 
ness of this test is i part in 8000. 

Oxidation of arsenious to arsenic compounds can be accom- 
plished by the addition of iodine ; the reaction proceeds best in 
a solution alkaline with sodium dicarbonate : — 

KHjAsOb -I- NaHCOg + Ij = Nal + KI + 1 CO, + HgAsO(. 



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TBE METALS $1 

Reactions of Arsenic Compounds 

1. NaOH, KOH, NH4OH or Na,CO, produces no precipitate. 

2. Hydrogen Solphlde. From cold, moderately acid solu- 
tions of arsenic acid, HgS precipitates, after some time, a mix- 
ture of AsaSg + S. The H,S first reduces the arsenic acid with 
the separation of sulphur, and then precipitates AsgSg readily 
from the reduced arsenic (-ic) solution : — 

(i) H8As04-|-H3S=HaO + |S + H8As08; 
(2) 2 Hj AsOg + 3 HaS = I AsjSg + 6 H3O. 

If the arsenic solution is heated, the reduction and precipita- 
tion are hastened. If the amount of HCl is considerable, the 
stream of HjS rapid, and the solution cold, all of the As will be 
precipitated as AsjSj : — 

2 HbAsO, + 5 HjS = 8 HjO + +As,Sj. 

When, under the same conditions of acidity, the solution is 
heated and then treated with a rapid stream of HjS, a mixture 
of AsjSa and AsjSg is obtained. 

To rapidly precipitate the arsenic existing in the pentad state, 
it should be first reduced by adding sulphurous acid (HjSOg) to 
the cold solution and boiling till the excess of SO^ is expelled.* 

From the resulting reduced solution, HjS will rapidly precipi- . 
tate the arsenic as As^Sj : — 

HgAsO, + HiSOg = HaSOi + HgAsOs !■ 

AsgSg has the same solubility as As^Sg ; it dissolves in 
(NHj)jS with the formation of ammonium tbioarsenate, from 
which HCl reprecipitates AsjSg : — 

AsaSe + 3(NH^)aS = 2(NH4)a ASS4 ; 
2(NH4)gAsSt-|-6HCl = |AsjSs+6NH4CI + t3HjS. 

* The reduction is best accomplished by adding the HiSOa to the cold solution 
contained in a piesiuie bottle, stoppering, and heating in a boiling water bath for 
one hour. The bottle should be thorooghl]' cooled before opening. 

t If alksMne earth caetaU are present, they will be predpitaled by the H1SO4 
formed. 



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52 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

3. Silver Nitrate precipitates from strictly neutral solutions 
chocolate-colored Ag3As04 (distinctioii from arseuious and phos- 
phoric acids) : — 

3 AgNOg + NagAsO^ =| Ag^O, -I- 3 NaNO,. 
The precipitate is easily soluble in acids and in ammonium 
hydroxide, 

4. Magnesia mlztore yields (better when the solutions are 
cold) with neutral or ammoniacal solutions a white crystalline 
precipitate of NH4MgAs04{distinction from arsenious acid): — 

K8A'sd]|+ MgClj+ NH,Cl = |NH4MgAs04+ 3 KCL 
The precipitate is soluble in acids, but insoluble in 2.5 per cent 
ammonia water. 

5. Ammonium Holybdate, when added in great excess to a 
hot nitric acid solution of arsenic acid, yields a yellow precipi- 
tate of ammonium arsenomolybdate of variable composition 
(distinction from arsenious acid): — 

HjAsO, + i2(NH,)aMo04 -I- 21 HNOg = 

12 HaO + 21 NH^NOg -f- 4(NH4)gAs04 ■ t2 MoOg. 
The presence of NH^NOj favors this reaction. The precipitate 
is soluble in ammonium hydroxide, also in an excess of HaAs04; 
hence the necessity of having an excess of the reagent. Phos- 
phates, or phosphoric acid, give a precipitate of similar appear- 
ance, hence they should be absent in making the test 

6. Reducing Agents, like FeSO,, HjSOb, NaaSOg, when boiled 
with a solution of an arsenate strongly acid with HCl, reduce 
the substance from the arsenic to the arsenious state. 

Any arsenic compound, when treated with strong HCl and 
distilled in a current of HCl gas, will yield a distillate of AsClg. 

Potassium Iodide, when added to an acid solution of HgAsO^, 
will reduce it to HaAsOj with the separation of iodine : — 

HbAsOj + 2 hi = HgAsOa -f- HjO + 1 la- 
This test serves to detect arsenic acid in the presence of arse- 
nious acid. 

Special Tests for the Detection of Small Amoonts. In the 
Marsh and Gutzeit tests, the reduction to AsHg takes place les& 



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TEE METALS 53 

rapidly, due to the necessity of a preliminary reduction of 
H^OjtoHjAsO,: — 

HgAsO, + H, = HgAsO, + HjO- 
With the Fleitmann test, preliminary reduction with H)SO| is 



Antimony 

Like arsenic, antimony forms two series of compounds, viz., 

antimonic salts, in which antimony acts as pentavalent; and 

antimonious compounds, in which antimony behaves as a trivalent 

element. 

Reactions of Antimonious Compounds 

In carrying out the following reactions a hydrochloric acid 
solution of SbClg may be employed. 

I. Sodium Hydroxide, Ammonium Hydroxide, and Sodium Car- 
bonate each precipitates white antimonious hydroxide, Sb(OH)g, 
insoluble in ammonium hydroxide, but soluble in an excess of the 
fixed caustic alkalies and in a hot solution of alkali carbonate : — 
SbClg + 3 NHpH = \ Sb(OH)a + 3 NH,C1; 
SKOH)s + 3 NaOH = Na,SbOa + 3 HjO. 
NajSbOj readily hydrolyzes in contact with water, yielding 
sodium metandmonite, NaSbO,: — 

NaaSbOg + HjO = 2 NaOH + \ NaSbO,. 
The latter is further hydrolyzed by water, yielding finally white 
SbjO,:— 2NaSbOa+H,0 = 2NaOH + |Sb,08. 
SbgOg is practically insoluble in water and in nitric acid, but 
readily dissolves in hot concentrated HCl with the formation of 
SbCls- 

Tartaric acid and the tartrates dissolve it in accordance with 
the following equations: — 

SbjOg + 2 HjC^HjO, = 2 H(SbO)C4H^Oe + HjO ; 
SbjO, + 2 KHCjH^O, - 2 K(SbO)C4H,Oe + H,0. 

Tartar euutic 

In both of the resulting soluble compounds of antimony, the 
group (SbO), called antimonyl, acts as a monovalent radical 
similar to (NO), nitrosyl, in nitrosyl sulphuric acid, H(N0)S04; 



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54 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

tartar emetic may, therefore, be called potassium antimonyl tar- 
trate. Ttie solubility of antimony compounds in tartaric acid is 
of great analytical importance. 

2. Water. If to a soludon of SbClg containing not too much 
free acid a relatively large quantity of water is added, there 
forms a white precipitate of antimony oxychloride, SbOCl: — 

SbCla + HjO -Z I SbOCl + 2 HCl. 
As indicated, the reaction is reversible, too much HCI having 
the effect of reversing the reaction ; precipitation may be has- 
tened by heating. The precipitate is easily distinguished from 
the corresponding bismuth compound by its solubility in tartaric 
acid: — 

SbOCl + HaQHp, = H(SbO)C4H40s + HCl. 

The precipitate is also soluble in strong HCl and can be changed 
directly to Sb^Sj by HjS: — 

2 SbOCl + 3 HjS = |Sb,S|, + 3 HjO + 2 HCl. 

3. Hydrogeo Sulphide. From solutions not too strongly acid 
with HCl, HjS precipitates red SbjSg: — 

2 SbCIg + 3 HaS^lSbaSg + 6 HCL 
The reversibihty of the reaction indicates that a high concentra- 
tion of HCl would prevent the precipitation, also that the pre- 
cipitate when formed would dissolve in strong HCl. It has 
been found by experiment that HCl (i : i) readily dissolves Sb^Ss 
(distinction and method of separation from As). S\S^ is solu- 
ble in (NH4)aS with the formation of a thio salt: — 

SbjSs-H 3(NH,)aS = 2^(NH^^b^^^^ 

If yellow (NHj)3S is used, the excess of sulphur in the latter 
oxidizes the thioantimonite formed in the last reaction to thio- 
antimonate : — 

SbaSj ■¥ 3 (NHj)aS. = 2 (NH^^jSbS^ -H (3 a: - 5)S. 
The great similarity of the chemistry of the thio salts of anti- 
mony and arsenic is thus seen. 



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TBE METALS 55 

If the solution of SbjSg in (NH4)aS, — that is, the solution 
containing ammonium thioantimonate and an excess of (NH4)^Si 
— is acidified with HCl, we get (as with the As compound) the 
higher sulphide precipitated and at the same time a separation 
of sulphur resulting from the decomposition of the excess of 
(NH,)aS.:- 

2 (NH4)3SbS4 + 6 HCl =|SbaS, + 6 NHjCl + 3 HjS ; 
(NH4)jS. + 2 HCl = 2 NH^Ci +tH,S +|(jr - i)S. 

The sulphide of antimony is also soluble in alkalies, from solu* 
tions of which HCl reprecipitates SbgSg. 

4. Zn-Pt Couple. If a solution of antimony, acid with HCl, is 
poured into a dish containing a piece of platinum foil and a 
piece of zinc is added so that it touches the platinum, there will 
form on the platinum foil a black deposit or stain of metallic 
antimony. Even in dilute solutions this characteristic test can 
be applied. If arsenic is known to be present, the test should 
be carried out under a hood because of the possible formation 
of arsine. 

5. If a solution of antimony, acid with HCl, is heated with a 
bright iron nail, all the antimony will he deposited in the form 
of black flocks (distinction from Sn). 



Antimonic Compounds 

I. Water. If a solution of SbClj, not too strongly acid with 
HCl, is diluted with a relatively large amount of water, a white 
precipitate of SbOjCl is fopned : — 

SbClj + 2 HjO ^^ SbOaCl + 4 HCl. 

If the dilution is very great, the SbO,Cl is further changed to 
antimonic acid : — 

SbOaCI + 2 HaO ^IHgSbO^ + HCL 

As with SbOCI, tartaric add prevents the precipitation of 
SbOjCL 



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S6 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

2. Hydn^en SnlpUde. From moderately add solutions of 
SbClj, HjS precipitates orange-red SbjSg : — 

2 SbCIg + S HjS =+SbjSj + 10 HCl 
The precipitate is soluble in concentrated HCl wiUi the forma- 
tion of SbCls and evolution of HjS : — 

SbjSg + 6 HCl = 2 SbClfl +i 3 HjS +\2 S. 
It possesses the same solubilities as the trisulphide, dissolving 
in (NH4)aS with the formation of ammonium thiantimonate, 
(NH4)BSbS4; on acidifying the latter with HCl, the pentasul- 
phide is reprecipitated : — 

2 (NH4)BSbS4 + 6 HCl "ISbaSj + 6 NH^Cl H-f 3 HjS. 
SbgSg also dissolves in caustic alkalies. 

3. Potassiain Iodide, when added to a HCl solution of SbCl,, 
reduces it with the separation of iodine [distinction from Sb 
(-ous) compounds] : — 

SbClg + 2 KI = 2 SbClg + 2 KCl +|I,. 

Special T«ats for Small Amonnta of Antlmonj 

I. TheHarali Teat. This is carried out in the same manner as directed 
for arsenic. The stibine (SbHg) which forms is decomposed in the hot tube 
with the separation of metallic antimony in the form of a black mirror which 
is insoluble in a solution of NaBrO (distinction from As). 

SbH, is further distinguished from AsH, by the formation of black Ag^b 
when the former is passed into a solution of silver nitrate : — 

SbH, + 3 AgNOs = 4- SbAg, + 3 HNO,. 
With AsHj the black deposit is due to metallic silver (see p. 49). 

a. Gutzeit Test. Same as for As, the blackening being due to AgjSb. 

3. The Selnach Test, when applied to antirnony compounds, yields a black 
coating on the copper foil, which, when dried and ignited, gives a non-crystal- 
line sublimate of Sb,0,. The latter is insoluble in water but is soluble in x 
hot solution of KHCjHjOj, from which H^ precipitates red Sb^,. 

Neither Fleitmann's nor Bettendoiff's test are applicable to antimony 
compounds. 

TiK 

The two oxides of tin, SnO and SnOj, correspond to two 
classes of salts known respectively as the stannous and statmic 



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THE METALS 57 

compounds. In the former, tin is divalent ; in the latter tetra- 
valent 

Reactions of Stannous Salts 
The stannous salts are all colorless. Those which are solu- - 
ble in water yield solutions which have an acid reaction ; the 
solid salts as well as their solutions rapidly absorb oxygen from 
the air with the formation of stannic compounds. 

1. Sodium Hydroxide, Ammonium Hydroxide, or Sodium Car- . 
bonate gives a white precipitate of Sn(OH)g, which is readily 
soluble in excess of NaOH with the formation of sodium stan- 
nite ; it is insoluble in excess of the other precipitants. 

SnCL, + 2 NaOH = |Sn(OH)j + 2 NaCl; 
Sn(OH), + 2 NaOH = Na,SnOj + 2 H,0. 

The precipitate also dissolves in HCl. It possesses, like 
A1(0H)8, both acid and basic properties; substances of this 
character are called amphoteric substances. 

2. Hydrogen Sulphide. From moderately acid solutions (con- 
taining not more than 2.5 per cent, of concentrated HCl) HgS 
throws down a brown precipitate of SnS: — 

SnCl3-f-HjS = |SnS-l-2 HCL 

SnS is soluble in strong HCl (distinction from As), nearly in- 
soluble in colorless (NH4)3S [distinction from the sulphides of 
As, Sb, and Sn (-ic)], but is soluble in hot (NHj)jSi: with the 
formation of ammonium thiostannate, from which HCl precipi- 
tates yellow stannic sulphide, SnSg : — 

SnS -I- (NHj)aS- = (NH^)aSnSB + (.r-^S; 



3. Mercuric Chloride, when added in excess to a solution of 
SnCl^ is reduced to white insoluble HgCl ; the SnCl^ is oxidized 
at the same time to S11CI4 : — 

2 HgCI, -t- SnCl, = ^2 HgO -H SnCI,. 



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58 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

If, however, tfae SnClj is present in excess, the HgCl first 
formed is further reduced to metallic mercury (gray or black): — 

2 HgCl + SnCl, = I 2 H|+ SnClf 

As this reaction is essentially one of reduction, it is important 
that the HgCl, solution contain no oxidizing agent Stannic 
compounds do not give this reaction ; it thus serves to distin- 
guish stannous from stannic compounds. 

4- Bismuth salts are reduced by an alkaline solution of stan- 
nous salts with the precipitation of black metallic bismuth (see 
under Bismuth, reaction 4). 

5. Metallic Zinc. When metallic zinc is introduced into 
a hydrochloric acid solution of either SnCIj or SnCIj, metallic 
tin is precipitated on the zinc in the form of a gray spongy mass. 
As the deposited tin is readily soluble in strong HCl, care must 
be taken not to have the solution too strongly acid. 

SnCl4-t-2 Zn=!2ZnCL,-|-|Sn; 
SnClj -I- Zn = ZnCla + ^ Sn. 

Stannic Compounds 

With the exception of the sulphide all the stannic compounds 
are either colorless or white. They are generally obtained from 
stannous salts by oxidation ; thus, a solution of SnCl4 for the 
following tests may be prepared by warming a rather strong 
HCl solution of SnClj, with KCIOg added in small portions, until 
the solution becomes yellow, and then boiling oS the excess of 
chlorine ; after a slight dilution with water, the solution is ready 
for use. 

Reactions of a Solution of SnClf 

I. Sodinm Hydroxide, Ammonlam Hydroxide, as well as Sodltun 
Carbonate, yield a white precipitate of stannic hydroxide, 
Sn(0H)4, which, on drying, becomes HjSnOg. The precipitate 
is soluble in excess of NaOH or Na^COs with the formation of 
sodium stannate of variable composition. 



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THE METALS 59 

3. Hydrogea Sulphide. From moderately acid solutions not 
exceeding 2.5 percent, concentrated HCl, H,S precipitates yellow 
SnS,: — 

SnClj + 2 H,S = ^, SnS, + 4 HCL 

SnSa is readily soluble in HCl (l : i), hence the necessity for 
having the solution not too strongly acid. The disulphide of 
tin readily dissolves in colorless (NH4)jS (distinction from SnS) 
, with the formation of ammonium thiostannate, from which 
HCl precipitates SnS, (yellow) : — 

SnSj + (NH4)jS = (NH4),SnSg; 
(NH4),SnS8 + 2 HCl = 2 NH^Cl + f HjS + ISnSj. 
On strong ignition in the air, SnS, is quantitatively converted 
into SnO,. 

3. Hercuric Chloride gives no precipitate witlt stannic salts 
(distinction from stannous). 

4. Hydrochloric or sulphuric acid does not precipitate stan- 
nic salts from solutions that are moderately concentrated (dis- 
tinction from metastannic compounds); when, however, the 
solutions are diluted and boiled, a precipitate of Sn(0H)4 is 
obtained : — 

SnCl* + 4 HjO :^| Sn(0H)4 + 4 HCl. 

5. Potasdam or Sodium Snlphate. From cold solutions no 
precipitate is obtained with these reagents (distinction from 
metastannic compounds); but, on boiling, a precipitate of 
Sn(OH)4 is obtained. 

Reactions 4 and 5 can be explained on the assumption that 
the oxy-salts of stannic tin first form, but being unstable in 
dilute solutions are decomposed into stannic hydroxide, thus: — 
(i) SnCl4+2 HaS04=Sn(S04)j + 4HCI; 

(2) Sn(S04)j + 4 H,0 = 2 HjSO, + ^SnCOH),. 

Similarly, with K^SOj =- we get 

SnCl4+ 2 K,S04= Sn(S04)j + 4 KCl, 
the Sn(SOi), being then hydrolyzed as shown' above in 
equation (2). 



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6o QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Metastannic Compounds 
There arc two forms of stannic compounds ; vii., the normal and the 
metastannic forms. The normal may be considered as derived from stannic 
hydroxide, formed by the action of NaOH on SnCl^. It is readily soluble 
in adds. The metastannic compounds are derived from metastannic acid, 
a white substance obtained by the action of hot dilute HNO, on metallic tin ; 
it has the same empirical formula as the partially dehydrated Sn(OH)j, i.t., 
HjSnO^ but differs from it in being insoluble in acids. When boiled for a 
short time with concentrated HO, a compound of the formula Sn,OjCIj(OH)g 
forms which, though quite insoluble in HCl, is readily soluble in water. From 
the fact that this and similar compounds may be formed from metastannic 
add, the formula Sn,0,(OH)ia or 5 (H^nOj) has been assigned to it. 
Stannic hydroxide, when dried over concentrated H,SO^ has the formula 
H^SnOf ; metastannic add is thus seen to be a polymer of stannic hydroxide. 

Reactions of Metastannic Chloride, Sn^0^Cl4fiH\ 

1. HCl precipitates Sn60,Cl4(OH)g, 4 HjO. 

2. Prolonged boiling with water causes the precipitation of 
all the tin as metastannic acid, insoluble in dilute acids. 

3. H^SOj, KaS04, or Na2S04 precipitates a white substance 
which changes, 00 washing with water, to metastannic acid 
(distinction from stannic chloride). 

4. KOH precipitates metastannic acid, which is converted 
by an excess of the concentrated reagent to a potassium salt ; 
the latter is soluble in water and in dilute KOH solution. 

5. NH4OH precipitates metastannic acid. 

6. H2S yields the same precipitate as with SnCl^ solutions. 
Solutions of stannic compounds are converted into the meta- 
stannic form by diluting and boiling : — 

S SnCl4 + 13 HjO^ 18 HCl + SngOjCI^COHV 
Conversely, metastannic compounds are converted into the 
stannic form by boiling with concentrated HCl or concentrated 
KOH. 

Action of HaS 

Besides its action as a group reagent for predpitating the metals of Group 

II., HjS also acts as a redudng agent. Should, therefore, an oxidiung agent 

be present in the solution subjected to the action of H,S, it will be reduced, 

the HjS being oxidized at the same time to elementary sulphur, which sepa- 



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THE METALS 6i 

lates ia a finely divided state, and, in some cases, partlj to sulphuric add. 
Among the oxidizing agents likely to be present in the filtrate from Group 1. 
are FeO,, K,CtjO„ KMnOj, HNO3, and aqua regia. The reduction of the 
first three substances is accompanied by a chaise in color of the solution, 
thus fi^quendy affording an indication of their presence. For example, a 
solution containing ferric salts undergpes a change from a yellow or reddish 
yellow to a colorless condition — 2 FeCI, + HjS = 2 FeCl, + 2 HQ + + S ; a 
K,Cr,Or solution changes by the action of H2S from reddish orange to green 
— KiCr,0, + 3 H^ + 8 HQ = 2 CrOj + 2 KQ + 7 H,0 + 1 3 S ; while a so- 
lution containiug KMnO^ changes from a solution with purple tint to one that 
is colorless : — 

1 KMnO, + 5 H^ + 6 HQ = 3 MnQ, + 3 KCl + 8 H,0 + 1 5 S. 

Should the concentration of nitric acid be large, it will oxidize the H^ 
with separation of sulphur and partly with the formation of H^SO^: — 
2 HNO, + 3 H,S = 4 HjO + -t2NO + |3S; 
3H,S + 8HN0, = 3H^O,+|8NO + 4H,0. 

Aqua regia will oxidize the HjS in accordance with the equation — 
Cl,+ HiS = 2Ha + |S. 

It will be observed that in every case the presence of an oxidizing agent 
causes the decomposition of the H^ with the separation of S ; with a. Large 
amount of oxidizing agent present, the amount of S and M^O^ will be 
formed in quantity sufficient to seriously interfere with the analysis. A large 
quantity of sulphur is undesirable because it complicates and masks the results; 
and the presence of H,SO, will have the effett of precipitating the alkaline 
earths along with the metals of the second group, so that where the amount 
of oxidizing agent is large it is advisable to eliminate the latter before pass- 
ing in HgS. If, from the purple or orange-red color of the solution, KMoO, 
or VLjZtfij is suspected, reduction may be readily effected by acidifying with 
HCI, adding alcohol, and boiling. For most purposes, it will only be neces- 
sary to consider the presence of a large excess of HNO, or aqua regia, be- 
cause of their extensive use as solvents. 

An excess of HNO, is removed by evaporating the solution to about I cc, 
adding 3 cc of concentrated HCI, and evaporating nearly to dryness. It can 
then be taken up with the aid of HQ and hot water. 

An excess of aqua rigta is disposed of by boiling the solution down to a 
small bulk, adding concentrated HCI and again evaporating to I cc. ; it 13 
then diluted with water and a few drops of HCI. 

H,S aa a PredpltatiDg Agent. In precipitating the second group sulphides 
with H,S, it Is exceedingly important that the solution have a certain approxi- 
inately definite acidity. If too great a concentration of add is present, com- 
plete predpitation will be impossible, owing to the appredable solubility of 
some of the sulphidea in moderately strong HCI (notably those of Pb, Cd, 



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62 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

and Sn). On the other hand, if the acid concentiatton is too small, certain 
metals of the third group will also precipitate, 9Zn, Ni, and Co. 

By experiment it has been found that a c^centiation of 2.5 cc. of HC] 
(sp. gr. 1.2) in a volume of loo cc. affords a satisfactory additj for the 
sepai^on of the second and third groups by H^. 

Predpltatloii vitb H^S 

The filtrate (i) from Group Lis made slig-Atfy aXkahae -miii 
■NH^OH and then j'usi acid with dilute HCl (2); 2.5 cc. of 
concentrated HCl are then added, the solution is heated nearly 
to boiling and is treated with a rapid stream of HgS for a few 
minutes. Without filtering (3), add enough cold water to make 
the total volume 100 cc, cool to room temperature, and pass in 
HjS again unti! precipitation is complete. Filter, dilute the 
filtrate with ^ its volume of water, and treat again with H^S ; 
now filter off any precipitate formed (4). The final filtrate 
should not give a precipitate when treated with HjS. The 
beaker containing the filtrate should be labeled Groups III.-V., 
at once placed on a wire gauze, and boiled until all the H^S is 
expelled (5). 

The precipitate may consist of HgS, PbS, Bi^Sg, CuS, CdS, 
AsjSb. SbgSa, SnS and S ; it should be washed with water con- 
taining HjS and about s per cent. NH^NOg (6) until the wash- 
ings are only faintly add. Reject the washings. 

ITOTBS 

1. A preHminaiy test for the second group should first be made on a small 
portion of the filtrate, in order to determine whether or not Group II. is 
present. If present, the entire filtrate should be treated with H^ in accord- 
ance with directions; if absent, the introduction and removal of H^ will thus 
be avoided. In that case pass to Scheme III. 

2. The solution must be thoroughly stirred with a glass rod during the 
addition of the ammonium hydroxide and add, and the acidity or alkalinity 
of mixture determined by means of litmus paper and not by the quantity of 
the reagent added. No attention need be given to precipitates which form, 
because these are either finally dissolved or converted by H„S into sulphides. 
If a large excess of add is known to be present, it should be removed by 
evaporation and the solution then brought to the proper condition of addity 
as directed in the procedure above. 



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THE METALS 63 

3. The solution is not diluted at once to 100 cc. because of the possible 
presence of arsenic, which comes down best in a hot strongly acid solution. 
It b a good plan to marlcf with a kbel the level at which the beaker will hold 
100 cc. ; the dilution can then be made without resorting to a measuring 
cylinder. 

4. The color of the H,S predpitate sometimes affords an indication of the 
metals present. If blade, it may be due to Pb, Cu, Hg, or to all of them ; if 
yellow, to Cd, SD(-ic), or As; if orange, to Sb. A ydlon precipitate 
which is insoluble In (NH,),S, cannot be anything other than Cd ; on the 
other hand, if the yellow predpitate dissolves completdy in (NH^^,, it must 
be either the sulphide of As or Sii(-ic), or both. 

5. As H3S in solution readily oxidizes in contact with air to S and HjSO„ 
and as the latter will precipitate alkaline earths, the necessity for immediately 
expelling the HjS is apparent. 

Keeping a glass rod in the beaker during the boiling will fadlitate tbe 
removal of H^ by preventing dangerous bumping, with a consequent loss of 
liquid. The completeness of the expulsion of the H^ may be determined by 
holdingapieceof filter paper moistened with lead acetate in the escaping vapor. 

6. The precipitate is washed with HjS water to prevent the oxidation 
of the sulphides to sulphates, which, with the exception of PbSO„ are all 
soluble in water. NHjNO^ is added to prevent the precipitate from going 
into the colloidal state and then passing through the filter. 

The separation of Group II. into two divisions is based on 
the difference of behavior of the sulphides towards (NH4)jSi. 

Division II. Aj|the copper group) includes those sulphides 
which are insdlmie in (NH j)jSi ; these are Hg, Fb, Bi, Cu, and 
Cd. 

Division II. B (the tin group) includes those sulphides which 
are soluble in (NH4)jSj with the formation of thio salts. The 
separation, however, is not sharp, which is due to the slight 
solubility of CuS in (NH4),S,. CuS is practically insoluble 
in NajSp but the latter quite appreciably dissolves HgS. For 
all practical purposes, the separation with (NH^^jS^ is suffi- 
ciently complete. 

In the analysis of the HgS precipitate it is sometimes just as 
well to assume the presence of both divisions and to treat the 
well-wasked precipitate at once with (NH4)jS„ as directed in 
paragraph 3. In most cases, however, it is preferable to make 
the following prelimioary tests. 



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64 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Preliminary examination of the H^S precipitate to determine 
the presence of — 

(r) Division A (copper group). By means of a glass spatula, 
put a very small amount of the precipitate into a small evapo- 
rating dish; add about 15 drops of (NH^jjS^ diluted with an 
equal quantity of water. Break up the precipitate with a glass 
rod, and warm gently with constant stirring for a minute {do not 
boil). If the precipitate completely dissolves, the Cu group is 
absent and the main precipitate is analyzed for the Sn group 
only (Scheme II. B). If a residue remains (i), the copper group 
is present. 

(2) Division B (tin group). Twice pass about 10 drops of 
(NH^)jS„ diluted with an equal volume of water, through the 
precipitate, which has been thoroughly washed and from which 
most of the water has drained; catch the liquid which passes 
through in a test tube (2) and just acidify with dilute HCl. In 
another test tube,y«f/ acidify with dilute HCl an equal portion 
of (NHj)5S„ diluted as above, and compare the results. A 
colored precipitate in the first tube which is different from that 
of the second proves the presence of the Sn group (3). If the 
two tubes present the same appearance after acidification, the 
absence of the Sn group is proved. 

(3). Seperatioa of tbe Divisions of Group II. 
If both divisions are shown to be present by the above 
tests, the entire precipitate is treated in a small beaker (50 cc. 
capacity) (4) with 10 cc. of (NH()jSi diluted with 5 cc. of water ; 
the mixture is thoroughly stirred, warmed for several minutes, 
and filtered (5). The residue on the filter may consist of HgS, 
PbS, BIjSb, CuS, CdS and S- The filtrate may contain the thio 
salts of As, Sb, and Sn. A warm mixture of 2 cc. of (NH4)jS, 
and an equal volume of water is poured on the residue (6), 
and the liquid which passes through is united with the filtrate 
containing the thio salts of Division B, which is then analyzed 
according to Scheme II. B. The residue is washed twice with 
hot water containing 5 per cent. NH^NOg and is then analyzed 
according to Scheme II. A. The washings are rejected. 



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TBB METALS 65 

NOTES 

1. A residue <^ S is not to be taken as indicating the presence of tlie Cu 
group. 

2. If the precipitate has not been washed free of add, the latter will de- 
compose the {NH^)^„ with the separation of S. If considerable acid is 
present, all of the (NHJ^, will be decomposed, with the result that the 
liquid which drains through the filter will be colorless and wilt ^ to react 
with HCL To remedy this, add more (NH^),S^, preferably diluted with 
NH4OH, until a colored filtrate is obtained, 

3. Because of the slight solubility of Cu5 in (NHJjS^, a liver-colored pre- 
cipitate is sometimes obtained in acidifying the (NHJ^S, solution. 

4. If the quantity of the precipitate is small, it may be treated on the filter 
with (NHj)jS„ using small portions at a time and allowing each portion to 
drain through before adding a fresh portion ; in this way a maximum of ex- 
traction with the minimum amount of solvent is secured. If water is used in 
transferring the precipitate to a beaker, it must be carefully poured off before 
adding the (NHJjS.. 

5. If the precipitate shows a tendency to pass through the filter in the 
CoUtudal condition, add several grams of NH4NO„ warm, stir, and refilter. 

6. This further treatment of the re»due with dilute (NHJ^, is given to 
insure the complete extraction of the As, Sb, and Sn 

Oatline at the Separatioa of the Hetals of Group n. A 
Of the sulphides of Group II. A, only HgS is insoluble in 
hot dilute HNOg; the addition of this reagent to the mixed sul- 
phides will therefore result in the solution of all the sulphides 
as nitrates, with the exception of HgS, which will be left behind 
as an insoluble residue. If, now, to the filtrate containing the 
nitrates of Pb, Bi, Cu, and Cd we add HaSO^, we should expect 
the Pb to precipitate as PhSO^ ; for Pb is the only metal of this 
group whose sulphate is insoluble in water. It is, however, 
appreciably soluble in nitric acid, and as the filtrate contains an 
excess of this acid, its removal is necessary if complete precipi- 
tation of the Pb as sulphate is desired. This is accomplished 
by adding concentrated H^SO^ and evaporating the solution 
until SOg fumes appear ; it is then diluted with water and the 
PbSO^ is filtered off. The filtrate will now contain Bi, Cu, and 
Cd as sulphates, and an excess of HjSO^. A glance at the 
reactions of the salts of these metals shows that NH^OH pre- 
cipitates all three of them, but that Bi is the only one whose 



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66 



QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



hydroxide is insoluble in excess. If, therefore, an excess of 
NHjOH is added to the filtrate from the PbS04, Bi(OH)8 will 
be precipitated and may be separated from the remaining two 
metals by filtration. The ammoniacal filtrate will be colored 
blue if Cu is present Cu and Cd may be separated by taking 
advantage of the difference of behavior of their double cyanides 
towards H^S. The double cyanides are formed by adding KCN 
to the ammoniacal solution until the blue color is discharged; 
the passage of H,S into this solution precipitates only the Cd as 
yellow sulphide. 

SCHEME n. A 

The residue from the (NHJ^Sj treatment may consist of HgS, PbS, fiijS^ 

CuS, and CdS. Wash the precipitate into a small beaker, pour off the water, 

add 15-30 CC. of dilute HNO„ and heat with constant stiiriog (l) ; txul for 

one and a half minutes, and £lter. 



Beaidne may be 
HgS (black) or 
2 HgS ■ Hg(NO,), 
(white) + S (2). 
Wash with water. 
Transfer ppt. to a 
small evap. dbh ; 
add 4 CC. aqita rt- 
gia, and boil till 
all but S dissolves. 
B(h1 a little longer 
to espel O, dilute 
with I CC. of water, 
and filter. To fil- 
trate add a few 
drops of SnCl^; a 
white ppt.y turn- 
ing gray to black, 
proves the pres- 
ence of Hg. 



Filtrate may cont^n Pb(NO,)p Bt(NO,)^ Cu(NO0» 
Cd(NO^, + excess of HNOg. Transfer to an evap. dish, 
add 5 CC of cone. H^SO,, and evaporate under a hood until 
SO, fumes are given off (3) ; cool and cautiously p>our the 
contents of dish into a beidcer containing 35 cc- of water. 
Rinse what remains in the evap. dbh with a little water 
into the same beaker; stir, allow to settle, and filter. 



Sestdneis 
PbS04(4). Wash 
once with water, 
and treat the ppt. 
the filter with 
CC. of a b 
ing solution 

NH.CsHiOj 
Catch filtrate i 
test tube, add z cc. 
acetic acid and 

K,CrO,. 
yellow ppt. CO I 
firms the presence 
ofPb. 



FUtiaU contains Bi,(S04)„ CuSO„ 
CdSOj + excess of HjSO,. AddNH(OH 

to alkaline reaction and then in slight 
excess. A deep blue coloration proves 
the presence of Cu (5). Allow any 
ppt. which forms at the same time to 
settle and filter. 



BMidue b 
Bi(OH), (6). 
Wash with water; 
c^ssolve ppt. on the 
filter with about 
5 drops of cone. 
HCl, and catch 
drops in a clean 
beaker. Add ;o cc. 
of water, warm, and 
allow to stand for 
a few minutes; a 
white ppt. or doudi- 
neas is BiOa (7). 



Filtrate contaios 
Cu(NH,),SO^, 
Cd(NHs)4SO, + 
excess of NH,OH. 
Add KqN until the 
solution is decolor- 
ized, and pass in 
H^. A yellow ppt 
is CdS (8). 



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THE METALS 



I n. A 

1. Stirring while heating witb dilute HNO, u important because of the 
tendency of the S, which separates in a plastic condition, to indoae portions 
of the sulphides, with tlie result that the latter are protected from the solvent 
action of the add. 

2. Besides the substances mentioned, the residue ma; consist of a little 
PbSO, resulting from the oxidation of PbS by the use of strong HNOj or the 
long-coDtinued action of the dilute add. But, as FbSO, is somewhat soluble 
in hot dilute HNO„ enough Pb passes into solution for its detection in the 
next operation. 

A black residue is not to be taken as proof of the presence of Hg ; it may 
be sulphur mechanically indosing small quantities of the blade sulphides, as 
PbS, CuS, and Bi^,. Consequently the residue after the HNO, treatment, 
whether it is black or white, must be tested for Hg. 

3. The object of evaporating the solution until SO, fumes result is to com- 
(detely remove the HNO„ which has a solvent action on the PbSO^. As the 
boiling point of concentrated HNO, is I30° C- and the fuming point of H^O^ 
is 250° C, it is evident that all the HNO, will have been removed when 
the solution is boiled until dense white fiimes of SOg are given off. The 
student should not look for SO, fumes until the bulk of his solution has been 
reduced to atwut 3 cc. If he is unable to recognize these fiimes with certainty, 
he should show hb results to his instructor before proceeding with the next 

'-fltep. Unless thb operation is properly conducted, it will not be possible to 
completely separate the Pb, with the result that the tests for Bi and Cd will 
be interfered with. 

4. PbSOj is a heavy white powder; a white coarsely crystalline pred^ 
tate (a basic sulphate of Bi) sometimes separates, hence the necessity of 
making a confirmatory test for Fb. Where the amount of PbSO^ b ver7 
small, it can be made dbtincUy vbible by coUectiag it in the center by means 
of a rotary motion imparted to the beaker, 

5. The deep blue solution produced by an excess of ammonium hydroxide 
is suffidently sensitive for the detection of Ca, A much more delicate lest 
consbts in addifying a portion of the solution with acetic add and addii^ 
K^e(CN),; a brown predpitate or coloration proves the presence of Cu. 

6. The formation of a white predptate at this point Is not proof of the 
presence of Bi ; for if all the Pb had not been removed in the previous opera- 
tion it will predpitate h^. A confinnatoiy test for Bi most therefore always 
be made. 

7. It frequently happens that a pred[ntate ot doudiness is not obtained 
even when Bi b present. Thb b due to the presence of an excess of add, 
which reverees the direction of the reaction : BiO, + H,O^BiOa + 2 HO. 
Thb may be remedied by adding MH^OH drop by drop to nentcalize the 
eiKxas oi »<Ad, tart iamfftaiat, however, to keep the solutwiKidd. 



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68 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Another confinnator)' test for Bi consists in poaring on the thoroughly 
washed white precipitate of Bi(OH)( a solution of Na^aOj (prepared bj add- 
ing NaOH to I cc. of SnCI^ till the precipitate which first forms dissolves), 
when if Bi is present it will be blackened due to the precipitation of metallic Bi. 

8. The presence of Hg or Pb in the solution to be tested for Cd will yield 
a black precipitate wbeo H^ is passed into the solution. A little Hg may 
find its way into the solution if the original H^S precipitate had not been 
thoroughly washed free from HCl or chlorides'; the latter, on boiling with 
HNOg, will yield agua regia, which dissolves some of the HgS. The 
presence of Pb is due to its incomplete removal in the previous operation. A 
black precipitate obtained with HjS, in testing for Cd, may be examined for 
this metal by filtering the precipitate, thoroughly washing it with hot water, 
and finally Jreating it with hot sulphuric acid (i pt. of cone, acid to 4 pts. of 
water) 00 the filter. The dilute H^SO^ dissolves the CdS and leaves on the 
filter the HgS and PbS ; the latter may be entirely changed to PbSO^. If the 
filtrate is now largely diluted with water and treated with H^S, a yellow pre- 
dpitate of CdS will be formed if Cd is present. 

Outline of the Analysis of Gronp II. B (the Tin Group) 
The insolubility of AsjSs in hot concentrated HCl is made 
use of to separate if from the sulphides of Sb and Sn ; the 
latter two dissolve in this acid, forming the corresponding 
chlorides with an evolution of H^S. The residue, after filtra-, 
tion, is taken into solution with concentrated HNOj; and the 
presence of arsenic, now in the form of arsenic acid, is con- 
firmed by its precipitation with AgNOj in a neutral solution as 
AggAsOj. When the AsaSj is removed by filtration, the filtrate 
will contain the Sb and Sn as chlorides and an excess of H^S. 
As the tests for Sb and Sn can be made in the presence of 
each other, it is needless to effect their separation. The filtrate, 
after boiling to expel the HjS, is divided into two portions. 

An iron nail is placed in the first portion and the liquid 
warmed. The u-on acts on the acid present, liberating hydro- 
gen, which reduces SnCl^ to SnCL, and at the same time pre- 
cipitates the Sb in the metallic state. The filtered solution, 
containing SnClg, is then tested with HgCI, solution. 

The second portion is tested for Sb by the galvanic action of 
the electric couple (Pt and Zn), which causes the antimony to 
precipitate as a black deposit on the platinum. 



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TBE METALS 69 

SCHEME II. (TIN OROVP) 

The filtrate 6btained after treating the H^S precipitate with 
(NH4)gS, will contain the thio salts of the metals of this group; 
viz.,(NH4)8AsS4.(NH4)8SbS4,(NH,),SnSg and exces3(NH4),S,. 
yarf acidify with dilute HCl (i) and filter; reject the filtrate. 

The residue will consist of AsjSj, SbjSj, SnSj, (CuS ?), and S. 

Transfer the precipitate to a small beaker, add ro cc. of con- 
centrated HCl, and heat gently to boiUng (2), with constant stir- 
ring, for about 5 minutes. Dilute with an equal volume of water 
and filter. 



ftMldue is As,S, + 5 (3}. Wash with Iiot 
water until the washings after boiling to expel 
HjS give only vl faint reaction with AgNOj. 
Reject washings. Transfer ppt. to an evap. 
dish (if water is used in transfeirlDg ppt., 
pour it off after ppt. settles). Add 3-5 cc. 
of cone. HNO^ stir, and heat gently until do 
more brown fiimes are given otT, and until the 
excess HNO, is expelled. Dilute with 3 cc. 
of water and filter through a small filter. 
Wash filter with i cc. of water, catching 
filtrate and washings in a test tube. Add 
5 cc. of AgNO, (4) ; filter if a precipitate 
forms. To the clear solution or filtrate add 
one drop of phenolphthalein and then render 
just alkaline with NHpH. Now add 5 % 
acetic acid drop by drop with shaking until 
theresolting mixture is bintly add. A choco- 
late-colored ppt. of Aj^AsO^ confirms the 
presence of arsenic (5). 



Filtrate may contain SbCl„ 
SnCl, + excess HQ -^ H^. 
Boil until the H^ is com- 
plettfy expelled (6). Divide 
the solution into 3 portions. 
In the 1st portion, test for Sn 
hy warming vn^ an iron nail 
for 3 minutes. Filter rapidly 
(7) into a test tube containing 
2-3 drops of HgClj ; a white 
ppt., which may turn gray or 
black, proves the presence of 
Sn. In the znd portion, test 
for Sb. Pour it into a small 
evap. dish containing Pt foil in 
contact with a piece of Sn or 
Zn. A black st^n on the Pt 
(8), which is insoluble in 
NaBrO, is Sb. 



ROTES TO SCHEME IL B 
L. An excess of add is to be avoided because of the solubility of SnS, i 
n moderately dilute add. 



3. The separation of As from Sb and Sn sulphides by the use of hot con- 
centrated HCl is not always vety sharp. With mixtures consisting of a small 



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yo QUAUTATIVB CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

amount of As and a relatively large quantity of Sb, the insoluble residue nuy 
contain enough Sb^S^ to give it a red color; thereforeared residue must always 
be examined for As. 

4. If all the HQ had not been removed by washing, the addition of AgNO, 
will yield a white precipitate of AgCl ; if this precipitate is large in amount, 
more AgNO, should be added before filtering to insure an excess of the latter 
in the filtrate. 

5. The test for arsenic with AgNO, depends upon the formation of 
AggAsO,, which only forma in a strictly neutial solurion ; if too much aceric 
add is added, precipitation will Ml, because of the ready solubility of Ag^AsO^ 
in adds as well as in alkalies. To remedy this, carefully neutralize the excess 
of add by the addition of dilute NH,OH. 

6. Test escaping vapors with lead acetate paper. 

7. By this procedure the SnCl^ is reduced to SnCl,; as the latter ra^dly 
oxidizes on exposure to air, particularly in a hot solution, the necessity of 
ra^ndly filtering into a test tube containing the reagent is apparent. 

6. If much Cu and little or no Sb are present,a dark red stain, easily dis- 
tinguished from a black stain, will be produced. 

The deanlng of the Pt foil b easily accomplbhed by first washing it witk 
water and then pouring on it concentrated HNOj. 

Reacdons of ICetals of Group ni 
The metals of this group are distinguished from those of tfie 
first and second groups by the fact that they accnot precipitated 
by HjS from solutions containing 2.5 per cent of hydrochloric 
acid, sp, gr, 1.2. They are associated together in one group be- 
cause of their common property of being completely precipitated 
by (NHj)jS in solutions alkaline with ammonium hydroxide in 
the presence of NH^Cl (distinction from Groups IV. and V.). 

Aluminum 

The aluminum salts are nearly all colorless ; the salts of the 
halogen adds, and the nitrate, sulphate, and acetate, are soluble 
in water. 

I. Ammonium Hydroxide throws down a white gelatinous 
precipitate of Al{OH)g, slightly soluble in excess; on boiling, 
the dissolved hydroxide is reprecipitated. The presence of 



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THE METALS 71 

NH4CI diminishes the solvent action of ammonia on the hydrox- 
ide; hence, to completely precipitate aluminum by ammonia, 
the latter should be added only in slight excess and the mixture 
boiled until the liquid has but a faint odor of the reagent. 
When freshly precipitated, A](OH)g is readily soluble in 
acids : — 

AlClg + 3 NHjOH = if Al(OH)8 + 3 NH^Cl ; 
Al(OH)g + 3 HCl = AlClg + 3 HjO. 

Aluminum hydroxide is also soluble in caustic alkalies (see 2). 

3. Potasslnm or Sodinm Hydroxide precipitates A1(0H),, 
soluble in excess with the formation of alkali aluminate: — 

AlCOH), + 3 NaOH = NajAlO, + 3 HjO. 

On carefully neutralizing the alkaline solution of sodium 
aluminate with hydrochloric acid, Al(OH)g is reprecipitated : — 

{a) NagAlOs + 3 HCl = 3 NaCl + \ A1(0H),. 

If an excess of acid is added, the precipitate which first forms 
is dissolved and we obtain : — 

(*) Al(OH)i, + 3HCl=AlCl8+3HaO. 

It is evident that if the original sodium aluj^ioate solution is 
at once acidified with HCI, we shall get the net result of (a) and 
{b). Adding {a) and {b), and eliminating A1(0H)3, which ap- 
pears on opposite sides, we get: — 

NajAlOg -1- 6 HCl = AlClg -J- 3 NaCl + 3 HjO. 

If, now, we heat this solution to boiling and add ammonium 
hydroxide in faint excess, all the aluminum will be precipitated 
as the hydroxide : — 

AlClg + 3 NHjOH = 4. AI(0H)8 -J- 3 NH^CL 

While the addition of a large excess of solid NH4CI will have 
the effect of precipitating Al(OH)g from the aluminate, the 
above process, viz., that of acidifying first with HCl and then 
rendering the resultiDg solution faintly alkaline with ammonium 



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73 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

hydroxide, is the more common procedure and the one to be 
generally recommended. 

It is important to remember that the direct additioa of am- 
monium hydroxide to a sodium aluminate solution will not pre- 
cipitate Ai(OHV 

^^"3. Ammoniam Sulphide precipitates AI(OH)g and not the 
sulphide. AljSg may be prepared in the dry way, but, on bring- 
ing it in contact with water, it at once hydrolyzes with the for- 
mation of the hydroxide and the evolution of H^S. The action 
of (NH4)jS on solutions of aluminum salts may be represented 
as taking place in two steps: — 

(a) 2 AlCIg H- 3(NH4)jS = AljSs -f- 6 NH^O; 
{b) AljSg -H 6 HjO = 1 2 A1(0H)8 H- 3 H,S. 

Adding {a) and {b), and eliminating Al^Sg, we get as the equa> 
tion for the final result : — 

2 AlCla-f 3(NH^)aS -H 6 HjO = +2 AK0H)8 -H 6NH^C1 + 3 H,S. 

4. Sodiam Carbonate also precipitates Al(OH)g. 

In the presence of non-volatile organic acids, as tartaric, citric, 
and malic acids, as well as certain organic matter containing 
(OH) groups, as aygars and starch, ammonium hydroxide, sodium 
carbonate, and ammonium sulphide fail to precipitate aluminum 
salts. 

5. Alkali Acetate. If an excess of alkali acetate is added to 
a slightly acid or neutral solution of an aluminum salt, and the 
mixture is largely diluted with water and boiled, a bulky pre- 
cipitate of basic aluminum acetate will be thrown down: — 

AlCl, ■¥ 3 NaCaHgO, = AI(C,H30a)8 + 3 NaCl ; 
Al(C,Hg03)3 -I- HjO :5^ ; AKOHXCjHgOj), -t- HCjHgOa 

The reagent is, in fact, hot water, which hydrolyzes the weak 
salt Al(CaH80j)g. Cooling the solution, or the presence of an ' 
excess of acetic acid, will have the effect of reversing the re- 
action, with the result that some of the precipitate will dissolve. 



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THE METALS 73 

6. Slsodinm Phosphate yields with solutions of aluminum salts 
a gelatinous precipitate of AlPO^, soluble in HCI and NaOH, 
but insoluble in acetic acid : — 

(i) NagHPOi + AlClg = I AlFOj + 2 NaCH- HCI ; 

(2) NajHPO, + HCI = NaHjPO, + NaCL 
Adding (i) and (2), and eliminating HCt, we get : — 

(3) 2 NaaHPO^ + AlClg = | AlPO^ + NaHaPO, + 3 NaCl ; 
(a) AlPO^ + 3NaOH = NasAlOa + HsPO^, 

(*) HgPO, + 3 NaOH = NagPO, + 3H,0. 
Adding (a) and (p), and eliminating HaPO^, we get : — 
AlPO, + 6 NaOH = NagAlO, + NagPOi + 3 HjO. 

7. Any aluminum compound, when strongly ignited in the 
air, is converted into Al^Os; if this is moistened with a very 
dilute solution of Co(N03)j and again strongly heated, a blue 
mass is obtained, due to the formation of cobalt aluminate. 
This reaction serves as an excellent confirmatory test for 
aluminum. 

Chromium 
The two principal oxides of chromium are CijOj and CrOg. 
The former is basic and forms the various chromic * salts by 
combining with acids, e.g., Cr308 + 6HC1 = 2 CrClg+S HjO; 
similariy by solution of CrjOg in H,SOj and HNOg, Crj(S04)8 
and Cr(NOg)g are respectively formed. In all these com- 
pounds chromium deports itself as a metal. CrOg, on the other 
hand, is distinctly acid in character, being the anhydride of the 
hypothetical chromic acid, HjCrO^, the salts of which are 
known as chromates. The latter may be prepared by treating 
CrOg with a base ; thus, sodium chromate (Na^CrOj) may be 
prepared by treating CrOg with caustic soda : CrOg + 2 NaOH 
= NajCrO^ + HjO. In the chromates, chromium plays the 

* In tfait case the ending -ic lefeis to the element when acting u a base, i.i., its 
electco-poaitive propettiet dominate. This majr perhaps beat be shown by the 
valence ai Ci'", chromic, etc. 



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74 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

part of the acid radical CrOf, the reacdoas of which are dififer- 
ent from those given hy Cr when a constituent of a chromic 
salt. An example will serve to illustrate this difference. 
Ammonium- hydroxide, when added to a chromic salt, hke 
CrClg, causes a precipitate of chromium hydroxide to form ; 
when added, however, to a chromate, as Na^CrO^ no precipi- 
tate results. Further, if to chromic chloride we add a solution of 
barium chloride or lead acetate, no precipitate results ; while if 
the same reagents are added to sodium chromate, yellow pre- 
cipitates are formed, due to the formation of BaCrO^ and 
PbCrOj, respectively. 

The distinction is further noted when we compare the aque- 
ous solutions of chromic salts and chromates ; the former pos- 
sess a green or violet color, while the latter are nearly always 
yellow. 

Chromic salts (Cr™) are converted into chromates (Cr''^) by 
oxidation in an alkaline solution ; conversely, chromates (Cr^') 
are reduced to chromic salts (Cr"') by reduction in an acid 
medium. 

The essential change may best be seen by considering only 
the oxides as taking part in the reactions ; * thus, the oxidation 
of a chromic salt to a chromate is given by the equation 

CrjOj +30 = 2 CrOg, 

while the reduction of chromate to a chromic salt may be repre- 
sented by 

2 CrOs -t- 6 H = CrjOg + 3 HjO. 

{a) Oxidation of Chromic Salts to Chromates. The oxidation 
is always carried out in an alkaline medium. In the dry way 
the oxidation may be accomplished by fusing a chromic com- 
pound with a mixture of Na^COg (which supplies the alkali) 
and an oxidizing agent like Na,Og, KClOg, or KNOg (which 

* Ai all chromic lalts nu^ be dcTived from CrtOg b^ treatment of the latter with 
the appropriate acid, And as the valence of Cr is the lamein this oxide aod its salts 
we ma; conveniently repteeent all chromic witi in oiiddRon equations bji CrgOa- 
FoT a similar reason, all chiomatei may be represented in reduction reactions by 
CtOt. 



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THE METALS 75 

supplies the O). Id its simplest form the equation for the 
oxidation is — 

CrjOa + 3 Na^COg + 30 = 2 Na^CrOj + f 3 CO,. 

The oxidation may be carried out in an alkaline solution by 
using any one of tbe many oxidizing agents, such, for instance, 
as Br (or any halogen), KMnO^ or H^Oy The alkali first pre- 
cipitates chromic hydroxide : — 

CrClg + 3 NaOH = | Cr<OH)g + 3 NaCl. 
This then dissolves in excess, giving sodium ckromite : — 

Cr(OH)s+ 3 NaOH = NaBCrOj + 3 H,0. 
Tbe chromite is then oxidized by the oxidizing agent to chro- 
mate: — 

2 NaaCrO, +'3 6,4- H^O = 3 NajCrO^ + 3 NaOH. 

When sodium dioxide (NajO,) is used, it is needless to first 
make the solution alkaline, because the sodium compound in 
contact with water is decomposed, yielding NaOH and O, 
according to the equation 

NajOa + H3O = 2 NaOH + O. 
An excess of NajO, will therefore yield the excess of NaOH 
necessary to convert the chromic salt to sodium chromite, while 
tbe oxygen Uberated at the same time will oxidize the chromite 
to chromate : — . ■' , 

2 NagCrOg + 3 NajOj + 4 HjO - 8 NaOH + 2 NajCrO^. 

Tbe oxidation by means of sodium dioxide is to be prpfeired 
to the other agents for the conversion of chromic compounds 
to chromate. In every case the oxidation is accompanied by a 
change in color from green to yelldw. 

If a solution of a chromate is acidified, the color changes from 
a yellow to an orange-red, due to the formation of a dichro- 
mate; — 

2 K,Cr04 + 2 HNOg = KjCrjO^ + 2 KNOg -f H,0. 



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76 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Conversely, if a base is added to a dichromate solution, the color 
changes from orange-red to yellow, due to the formation of a 
chromate : — 

KjCrgOj + 2 KOH = 2 KgCrO, + HaO. 

Both chromates and dichromates, when in solution, may be 
precipitated by solutions of Ba or Pb salts [distinction from 
chromic (Cr"") compounds] : — 

KaCrOj + PKCaHsOa), = | PbCrO^ 2 KCaHgOa ; 
KjCrjO, + 2 BaClj + Hp = 1 2 BaCrO^ + 2 KCl + 2 HCI. 

(d) Redaction of chromates to chromic compounds is effected in 
acid solutions by any one of the many reducing agents, e.^., 
HjS, HI, SOj, concentrated HCI, and various organic sub- 
stances, as alcohol and oxalic acid. 

With concentrated HCI the reaction is — 

KjCrjOT + 14 HCI = 2 KCH- 2 CrClg + 7 HaO + f 3 Cly 

With HjS the reduction takes place in accordance with the 
equation 

KaCraO, + 3 HjS + 8 HCI = 2 CrClg + 3 KCl + ; HjO + 1 3 S. 
In this case the green solution appears turbid from the separa- 
tion of S. 
With sulphurous acid the equation is — 

KaCrjOj + HaSO^ -I- 3 HjSOb = Cra(SO,)B -I- KjSO^ -I- 4 HjO. 

In all the above cases the reduction is evidenced by a change in 
color from orange-red to green. 

Other reaction for chromates will be given in Part II., dealing 
with the acids (see page 142). 

TAe Chromic Salts 

Of the common salts of chromium, the sulphate and the 

chloride exist in two forms : one is very readily soluble in water ; 

while the other, which has been ignited, is neither soluble in 



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THE METALS 77 

water nor acids. The nitrate exists in one form only and is 
easily soluble in water. All aqueous solutions of chromium 
salts have either a green or violet color, which varies with the 
concentration and other conditions. A solution containing as 
little as r part of chromium in 10,000 parts of water will have a 
distinct bluish green color. 

Reactions of tke Chromic Salts 

1. Anunoniam Hydroxide produces a greyish green or blue 
gelatinous precipitate of Cr(OH)}, soluble with difficulty in 
excess with the formation of a violet solution, from which, on 
boiling, Cr(OH)g is reprecipitated. The precipitate is easily 
soluble in acids and in sodium hydroxide (see 2). 

2. Sodium or Potasslom Hydroxide precipitates Cr(OH)g, solu- 
ble in excess in the cold to a green solution with the formation 
of sodium chroraite ; on boiling this solution, Cr(OH)B is repre- 
cipitated (distinction from AI). The precipitate is easily solu- 
ble in acids. 

CrClg + 3 NaOH = | Cr(OH)a -f 3 NaCl ; 
Cr(OH)j, -I- 3 NaOH = Na^CrOg + 3 Hp ; 
NagCrOg -H 3 HjO (boiling) = | Cr(OH)g + 3 NaOH ; 
Cr(OH)g-t-3HCl = CrClg-H3HaO. . 

3. Ammonium Sulphide precipitates Cr(0H)3, for Cr,Sg, like 
AJjSg, is hydrolyzed by water with the formation of Cr(OH)g 
and the evolution of HjS : — 

2 CrClg + 3(NH^)jS -|- 6 HjO = 

1 2 Ci<OH)b -H 1 3 HjS + 6 NH^Cl. 

4. Sodium Carbonate also precipitates the hydroxide. The 
presence of non-volatile organic acids, like tartaric and citric 
acids, as well as organic matter containing (OH) groups, as sugar 
and starch, interferes with reactions l, 2, 3, 4, and 5. 

5. Dlsodium Phosphate precipitates from solutions of chromic 
choride green CrPO^ : — 

2 NaaHPO, -H CrClg = 3 NaCl -H NaHjPOi -I- ICrPO^. 



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78 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

The precipitate is easily soluble in inorgaaic acids, but is prac- 
tically insoluble in cold dilute acetic acid, although it is soluble 
in a targe excess of 50 per cent acetic acid. 

6. Sodium Dioxide, If a solution of a chromic salt is treated 
with a sufficient amount of sodium dioxide and boiled, all of the 
chromium will be converted into sodium chromate. The reac- 
tion may be represented by the following equations : — 

(i) 3 NajOa + 3 HgO = 6 NaOH + 3 O ; 

(2) CrCls + 6 NaOH = NagCrOg + 3 NaCl + 3 HjO ; 

(3) 2 NajCrOg +30 + HjO = 2 NaaCrO^ + 2 NaOH. 

7. If Sodium Acetate is added to a solution of a chromium salt, 
no precipitate is produced even on boiling. If, however, the 
solution contains relatively large amounts of iron (ferric) and 
aluminum, the chromium will be almost completely precipitated 
as a basic acetate on boiling (compare the corresponding reac- 
tion for aluminum). Should the iron and aluminum be present 
in small and the chromium in relatively large amounts, the pre- 
cipitation will be incomplete and in the filtrate will be found 
some of the Al, Cr, and Fe. 

The important deduction from these facts is, that in the pres- 
ence of a large amount of chromium it is necessary, in order to 
completely precipitate aluminum and iron as basic acetates, that 
one of the latter metals be present in large excess. 

Iron 
Iron, as an electro-positivtf' element, forms two distinct classes 
of salts 1 viz., the ferrous compounds, in which iron is divalent, 
and the ferric salts, in which iron is trivalent. As the two 
classes exhibit a difference in behavior when treated with the 
same reagents, we shall consider them separately. 

The Ferrous Compounds 

When they contain " water of crystallization " the ferrous 

salts are green, and when anhydrous, they are white. The 

aqueous solutions, except when concentrated, are almost color- 



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TBE METALS 79 

less. FetTous salts in soluBoD are very unstable, for they rapidly 
absorb oxygen from the air and are converted into basic ferric 
salts, difficultly soluble in water. Oxidizing agents readily change 
ferrous salts to ferric compounds. 

Reactums 

1. Amnumltun, Sodium, or Potassium Hydroxide precipitates 
at first white gelatinous Fe(OH)3, which, on exposure to the air, 
is rapidly oxidized, becoming first dirty green, then black, and 
finally a reddish brown; the last is ferric hydroxide, and the 
other colors are doubtless due to varying mixtures of ferrous 
and ferric hydroxides. 

FeCL+ 2 NH.OH =iFe(OH)a+ 2 NH.CI; 

WHlle 

2 Fe(OH)s + O + HjO = 1 2 Fe(0H)8. 

Beddlab brawn 

In the presence of much ammonium chloride, ammonium hy- 
droxide fails to yield an immediate precipitate ; but on exposure 
of the ammoniacal solution to the air, ferric hydroxide is finally 
thrown down. If the air is excluded, ammonium hydroxide 
does not precipitate ferrous salts in the presence of a sufficient 
quantity of ammonium salts (distinction from ferric salts). 

The property of not being precipitated by ammonium hydrox- 
ide in the presence of a sufficient amount of ammonium salts is 
not peculiar to ferrous salts alone, but is shared alike by the 
salts of nickel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, and magnesium.* 

2. Hydrogen Snlphide, in acid solution, gives no precipitate. 
From neutral solutions a slight precipitate of FeS results ; if, 
however, considerable sodium acetate is present, a larger, though 
still incomplete, precipitation is obtained. From alkaline solu- 
tions, HgS completely precipitates the iron as black ferrous 
sulphide. 

* An eiidatution of this bet zexy be found in the Tktery ef EUttrelyHt Dissoei- 
■atien wad the Law a/Mast ActUm. The presence of NH4CI diminiihei the concen- 
tration of the (OH) ioni derired from the ammoniiun hydroxide to neh ui extent u 
to yield with the ferroni iroD preient an ■mount of Fe(OH)i leu than the lolabilitr 
product of the ktter. 



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So QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

3. Ammoniam Sulphide precipitates black FeS, easily soluble 
in acids with the formation of a ferrous salt and evolution of 
HaS : — pgcij + (NH4)aS = | FeS + 2 NH^Cl ; 

FeS + 2 HCl = FeClj + f HaS. 
When moist, it readily oxidizes in the air, becoming first ferrous 
sulphate and finally brown basic ferric sulphate. To prevent 
this oxidation, the precipitate should be washed with water con- 
taining ammonium sulphide. The presence of ammonium chlo- 
ride assists the precipitation. 

4. Potaasium Cyanide precipitates brown ferrous cyanide, 
soluble in excess with the formation of potassium ferrocya> 
nide : — p^^l, + 2 KCN = | Fe(CN)a + 2KCI; 

Fe(CN)j-J- 4 KCN = K^Fe(CN)g. 
The solution of potassium ferrocyanide does not give any of the 
reactions of ferrous salts ; it is therefore not a ferrous salt, but 
the potassium salt of ferrocyanic acid, H4Fe(CN)8. The group 
Fe(CN)g is an acid radical like CrO^ in chromates and differs 
distinctly in its behavior from iron, existing as the simple metallic 
component of salts. 

5. Potassium Ferrocyanide precipitates, in the complete ab- 
sence of air, white K,Fe"Fe(CN)g ; under ordinary atmospheric 
conditions, however, a light blue precipitate is obtained, due to 
partial oxidation ; on prolonged exposure, it is completely con- 
verted into a dark blue precipitate of prussian blue : — 

FeCIa + KjFeCCN), = | FeKjFe(CN)8 + 2 KCL 

6. Potassium Forricyanide produces even in very dilute solu- 
tions of ferrous salts a dark blue precipitate, known as TumbuU's 
blue, which is indistinguishable in color from prussian blue : — 

3 FeCla-H2 K8Fe(CN)B = |Fe8[Fe(CN),]2-f6 KCl. 
The precipitate is insoluble in HCl, but is decomposed by caustic 
alkalies with the formation of ferrous hydroxide and alkali ferri- 
cyanide : — 

Fe8[Fe(CN)e]a + 6 KOH = | 3 Fe(OH)j-|- 2 KgFe{CNV 



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THE METALS 8i 

The fenicyanide at once oxidizes the ferrous hydroxide, so that 
the final products are Fe(OH)8 and K4Fe(CN)g. 

7. Potassinm thlocTanate gives no reaction with ferrous salts 
(distinction from ferric salts). 

Oxidation of Ferrous to Ferric Salts. It has been already 
stated that solutions of ferrous salts are very unstable, oxidizing 
gradually on exposure to air to ferric compounds. The oxida- 
tion can be more rapidly accomplished by the use of oxidizing 
agents in acid solution, as the halogens, aqua regia, a mixture of 
HCl and KClOg, nitric acid, potassium permanganate, potassium 
dichromate, and hydrogen dioxide. The equations for the oxi- 
dation of ferrous salts by nearly all of these oxidizing agents 
have been given under Oxidation and Reduction (see page 25). 

In oxidizing with nitric acid, the strong acid should be added 
drop by drop to the boiling acid solution of ferrous salt until no 
furt^r darkening of the solution is evident. The oxidizing 
action of hydrogen dioxide and aqua regia, respectively, may be 
represented by the following equations : — 

2 FeCl, -1- 2 HCl-t- HjO, = 2 FeCIg + 2 HjO ; 
3FeCla+3HCl + HN08=3FeCl8 + tNO+2H,0. 

Ferric Salts 
Most of the ferric salts, as the chloride, nitrate, and sulphate, 
yield solutions with a yellowish brown color, which varies in 
intensity with the concentration and temperature of the solution, 
as well as with the quantity of free acid present. The ferric 
ammonium alum, Fej(S04^ • (NHj)jSOt ■ 24 HjO, is violet. 
Ferric salts in dilute aqueous solutions are readily hydrotyzed, 
particularly on heating, with the formation of an insoluble basic 
ferric salt which dissolves on the addition of an acid : — 
Fes(S04)B + HjO ^1 Fes(SO,)aO + H^SO,. 



I. Ammonlam, Sodlnm, or PotasBlom HTdroxUe precipitates a 
reddish brown gelatinous precipitate of FetOH),. The predpi- 



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82 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

tate is unaffected by the presence of ammonium salts [distinc- 
tioQ from Fe(OH)j], and is soluble in acids, but is insoluble in 
an excess of sodium hydroxide (distinction from Al and Cr) ; it 
is also insoluble in an excess of ammonium hydroxide: — 
FeClg + 3 NH^OH = |Fe(OH)g + 3 NH^Cl; 
Fc(OH)g + 3 HCl = FeClg + 3 H,0. 

On ignition it yields FcjOg : — 

2 Fe(0H)8 + (heat) = FCjO, + 3 H,0. 

Ignited, Fe,Og is difficultly soluble in dilute acids, but dissolves 
on prolonged treatment with hot concentrated hydrochloric acid. 

3. Ammonlom Sulphide gives with acid solutions a precipitate 
consisting of FeS + S. From ammoniacal solutions, black ferric 
sulphide, FejSg, is precipitated : — 

2 FeClj + 3 (NH4)jS - + FejSa + 6 NH^Cl. 

The precipitate is readily soluble in hydrochloric acid with the 
formation of ferrous chloride and the separation of sulphur : — 

FeaSg + 4 HCl = 2 FeClj + 1 2 H,S + |S. 

3. Potassium Ferrocyanlde produces with ferric salts a blue 
precipitate known as prussian blue : — 

4 Fed, + 3 K,Fe(CN)9 = +Fe4[Fe(CN)g], + 12 KCL 

The precipitate is insoluble in dilute HCl, but dissolves in 
oxalic acid, as well as in a great excess of the precipitant, with 
the formation of a blue solution. Prussian blue is decomposed 
by caustic potash, the products being ferric hydroxide and 
potassium ferrocyanide : — 

Fe4[Fe(CN)fl]g + 12 KOH = U Fe(OH), + 3 K,Fe(CNV 

In making this test for iron, it is important that the solutions 
contain only a small amount of strong add, as the latter would 
parti^y decompose the reagent with the formation of a small 
quantity of iron salt, which, reacting with the unchanged portion 



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THE METALS 83 

of the reagent, would yield a blue coloration. Neutral solutions 
containing i part of iron in 500,0CX) parts of water will give this 
reaction. When only small amounts of iron are present, a blue 
or green coloration, instead of a blue precipitate, is obtained. 

4. Potassium Fenicranlde does not precipitate ferric salts, 
but produces a brown coloration (distinction from ferrous salts). 

5. Potassium Thiocyanate gives with solutions of ferric salts 
a deep red coloratiqp, due to the formation of ferric thiocyanate, 
which is soluble in water : -=- 

FeCIa + 3 KCNS^Fe(CNS)8 + 3 KCL 

The reaction being reversible, its sensitiveness is increased by 
adding an excess of the reagent. As little as i part of iron in 
1,600,000 parts of water can be detected by this reagent; The 
dehcacy of the test may be further increased by adding a little 
pure ether and shaking ; the ether extracts, and thus concen- 
trates, the colored body. Nitric and chloric acids also give with 
the reagent a red coloration, but the latter, when due to these 
substances, is destroyed by adding alcohol and heating. Rela- 
tively large amounts of alkali acetate, organic acJds, like tartaric, 
acetic, and oxalic, as well as phosphoric, arsenic, and boric acids, 
interfere with the reaction in neutral, though not in strongly 
acid, solutions. The addition of acid in making the test is 
therefore advisable. Mercuric chloride bleaches the red color- 
ation. 

6. Dlsodlom Hydrogen Phosphate in neutral or slightly acid 
solutions of ferric salts containing a relatively large amount of 
sodium acetate, produces a buff-colored precipitate of ferric 
phosphate : — 

(a) FeClg + 2 NajH PO, =| FePO, -I- NaHjPO, -I- 3 NaCl ; 

(b) FeClg + NaaHPO, + NaCaHgOj 

=^FePO^-t- 3 NaCl -|- HC,Hg(\ 

In (a) all the iron is precipitated but not all the phosfihoric 
add ; in {b) both the iron and phosphoric add are precipitated. 



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84 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

FePOj is insoluble in acetic acid, but readily dissolves in HCL 
Caustic alkalies decompose it into Fe(OH)g and NagPOj : — 

FeP04 + 3 NaOH =| Fe(OH)B + NaaPO^. 
Treatment with ammonium hydroxide or hot water effects a par- 
tial hydrolysis into the hydroxide. 

7. Sodium or Ammonlam Acetate, when added in excess to a 
slightly acid solution of a ferric salt, causes the solution to take 
on a reddish brown color, due to the formation of ferric ace- 
tate:— 

FeClg + 3 NaCjHgOa = Fe(CaHgOj)a + 3 NaCL 

If this solution H largely diluted and boiled, all the iron will be 
precipitated as a basic acetate : — 

Fe(CaH80a)8 + HaO(boiling):^|Fe(OHXCjHaOa)a +HCaH80a. 
The presence of non-volatile organic acids or sugar interferes 
with the precipitation of Fe in reactions r, 6, 7. 

8. Reduction of ferric salts to ferrous may be readily effected 
in acid solution by reducing agents, as HjS, nascent H, SnCl,, 
HaSOg, HI, and others. The following equations illustrate 
this: — 

2 FeClj, + HaS =2 FeCla+ 2 HCl +\S ; 

FeCIg + H (from Zn + HCl) = FeCIa + HCl ; 

2 FeClg + SnCla = 2 FeClj + SnCl^ ; 

3 FeCIj + HaSOg + HjO = 2 FeClj -I- 2 HCH- HaSO^ ; 
FeClg+HI =FeCla+HCl-l-|I. 

Nickel 
When in the crystalline condition or in aqueous solutions, the 
nickel salts are green ; when anhydrous, they are yellow. The 
green solutions can be rendered colorless by admixture with 
cobalt compounds in the proportion of 3 of nickel to i of cobalt. 
I. PotaBsium or Sodium Hydroxide precipitates green gelati- 
nous Ni(OH)j, insoluble in excess and not oxidized on exposure 
to air : — 

NiCla + 2 NaOH =|Ni(OH)a + 2 NaCl. 



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TBE METALS 85 

The predpitate is readily soluble in acids ; also in ajnmonium 
hydroxide and ammonium salts. If the alkaline solution con- 
taining Ni(OH)j in suspension is treated with bromine or 
chlorine and the mixture boiled, black nickel (-ic) hydroxide is 
formed : — 

Ni(OH)j + NaOH + Br=|Ni(OH)s+ NaBr. 

3. Ammonium Hydroxide, when considerably diluted and 
added in small quantity, causes a green turbidity, due to the 
formation either of a basic salt or the hydroxide : — 
NiClj + 2 NH^OH = I Ni(OH)a + 2 NH^CI. 

The precipitate is readily soluble in excess or in the presence of 
ammonium salts, with the formation of a blue solution contain- 
ing a nickel ammonia salt : — 

Ni(OH)a + 2 NH^Cl + 2 NHg = NiCNHsXCIj + 2 H,0. 
Therefore, in the presence of sufficient ammonium salts, Ni is 
not precipitated by ammonium hydroxide. 

3. Hydrogen Sulphide yields no precipitate in solutions of 
nickel containing mineral adds or much acetic acid. If, how- 
ever, the acetic acid solution contains a relatively large amount 
of sodium acetate, or if the solutions are rendered ammoniacal, 
hydrogen sulphide will completely predpitate the nickel as black 
nickel sulphide : — 

NiCla + 2 NaCaHaOa -|- HjS = | NiS + 2 NaCl -t- 2 HCjHgO^ 

4. Ammonium Sulphide gives with neutral or alkaline solu- 
tions of nickel salts a black precipitate of NiS, somewhat soluble 
in excess, espedally in the presence of free ammouia, with the 
formation of a dark brown solution (distinction from Co). If 
this brown solution is acidified with acetic add and boiled, NiS 
is repredpitated. The presence of large quantities of ammo- 
nium salts prevents the solution of NiS in (NH4)3S solution. 

NiCl, -f- (NHi)3S= I NiS -H 2 NH4CI. 

Nickel sulphide is practically insoluble in cold HCl(sp.gr. 1.02) 
(distinction from the sulphides of Mn, Zn, and Fe). It is also 



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86 QVAUTATIVE CSmilCAL ANALYSIS 

insoluble in acetic acid, but is readily taken into solution on 
heating with agua regia or concentrated nitric acid : — 
3NiS + 2HNO, + 6Ha=3NiCla+f2NO + 4HjO+|3S. 
The sulphur, which separates in a plastic condition, often 
appears black because of the presence of some NiS inclosed in 
it. If the treatment with aqua regia is continued for some time, 
all the sulphide will be dissolved and the sulphur will be con- 
verted into sulphuric acid : — 

S + 6 CI + 4 H,0 = HjS04+ 6 HCL 
On exposure to air, moist nickel sulphide is oxidized to NiSO^. 

5. PotaBdnm Cyanide gives a green precipitate of nickel 
cyanide, readily soluble in excess with the formation of a 
double cyanide : — 

NiClj + 2 KCN = I Ni(CN)3 + 2 KCl ; 
Ni(CN>, + 2 KCN = K,Ni(CN)4. 
If the solution of the double cyanide is made strongly alkaline 
with NaOH, and then treated with bromine or chlorine and . 
gently heated, decomposition of the double cyanide results with 
the precipitation of black nickel (-ic) hydroxide (distinction and 
method of separation from Co) : — 

K,Ni(CN), + Br + 3 KOH = | Ni(OH)j + 4 KCN + KBr. 

6. Potasslnni Nitrite, in dilute solutions of nickel salt3 acid 
with acetic acid, gives no precipitate (distinction and method of 
separation from Co). 

7. Dilnetbylglyoxloie. From solutions of nickel salts, alkaline 
with ammonia, an alcoholic solution of dimethylglyoxime will 
yield a voluminous red precipitate of the composition shown in 
the following equation : — 

[CHg-C = NOH 
- ' I +NiCL + 2NHa = 2NH,a 

C-NOH 

CH. - C = NOH CH. - C = NOv 

I . I >Ni. 



ICH.-C-NOH 



CH, - C = NOH CH, - C » NO- 



,/" 



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THE METALS 87 

The presence of one part of nickel in 400,000 parts of water 
may be detected by this reagent Cobalt salts do not give this 
reaction. 

8. Borax Bead Test A borax bead, when fused with a nickel 
compound in the oxidizing Same, is colored reddish brown, due 
to the formation of Na5Ni(B0a)4. In the redftdng flame, the 
nickel is reduced to the metallic state, imparting a gray color to 
the bead. 

Cobalt 

The cobalt salts, when in the crystallized condition or in aque- 
ous solution, are reddish pink ; in the anhydrous form, they are 
usually blue. The concentrated aqueous solutions in the pres- 
ence of HCl are also blue. 

1. Sodium Hydroxide precipitates from cold solutions a blue 
basic salt: — 

CoCla -f- NaOH = |Co(OH)Cl + NaCl. 
This is converted, on warming in contact with the alkali, to pink 
cobaltous hydroxide : — 

Co(OHX:i + NaOH = |Co(OH)a + NaCL 
The precipitate is insoluble in excess, but readily soluble in 
ammonium salts; hence, the presence of ammonium salts in 
sufficient quantity interferes with the precipitation. On expo- 
sure to the air, the pink hydroxide oxidizes to black Co(OH)g 
[resemblance to Fe (-ous) and Mn, and distinction from Ni] : — 

2 Co(OH)a + H,0 + O = |2 Co(OH)8. 

2. Ammonlttm Hydroxide, in the absence of ammonium salts, 
produces the same precipitate as in (i), but the latter readily 
dissolves in excess of the reagent to a brownish solution, which, 
on exposure to air or on boiling, changes to a red solution, due 
to the formation of a complex ammonia compound : — 

Co(OH)a + 2 NH,C1 + 2 NHg = Co(NHb)4C1j + 2 H3O. 
As in the case of Al, Cr, and Fe (-ous), the precipitation of 
Co as hydroxide is interfered with by the presence of non- 
volatile organic acids or sugar. 



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88 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

3. Hydrogen Sulphide. Same as with NL 

4. Ammonliua Sulphide precipitates in neutral or alkaline 
solutions black CoS, insoluble in excess (distinction from Ni), 
insoluble in HCl (sp. gr. 1.02) and in acetic acid. It is soluble 
in aqua regia and concentrated nitric acid with the separation 
of sulphur : — 

3 CoS + 8 HN0g = 3 Co(N08), + t2 NO+4 H,0 + |3 S. 

5. Potassium Cyanide gives in neutral solutions a light brown 
precipitate of cobaltous cyanide, easily soluble in excess to a 
brown solution with the formation of a double cyanide : — 

CoCI, + 2 KCN = |Co(CN)i, + 2 KCl; 
Co(CN), + 4 KCN = K4Co(CNV 

The latter is similar to potassium ferrocyanide, hence it is called 
potassium cobaltocyanide. On warming the solution of the 
double cyanide for some time, it changes color to a bright yel- 
low, due to oxidation to potassium cobalticyanide [similar to 
K,Fe(CN)j,]:- 

2 K,Co(CN), + HjO +0 = 2 K,Co(CN)b + 2 KOH. 

The reaction takes place more rapidly if sodium hydroxide 
and bromine or, what amounts to the same, NaBrO so- 
lution, is added to the solution of potassium cobalto- 
cyanide. Nickel does not form the corresponding com- 
pound, but under these conditions it is converted into black 
insoluble Ni(OH^ (distinction and method of separation 
from Co), 

6. Potassium Nitrite produces, when added in excess to a not 
too diluted solution of cobalt acidified with acetic acid, a yellow 
crystalline precipitate of potassium nitrocobaltate, KgCo(N03)^ 
With dilute solutions of cobalt, the mixture should be warmed 
and allowed to stand for at least twelve hours in order to get 
complete precipitation. The reaction may be represented as 
taking place in several stages : — 



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TEE METALS 89 

(a) CoCl, + 2 KNOs = Co(NO,), + 2 KG ; 

{b) 2 KNOi + 2 HCjHgOa = 2 HNOj + 2 KCjHgO, ; 

(<r) 2 HNOj = HjO + NO + NO,; 

id) Co(NOa)a + NOj = Cf^NOs),; 

(«) Co(NO,)8+3 KN03 = ^K3Co(NOa),. 
The precipitate is somewhat soluble in water, but is prac- 
tically insoluble in a solution saturated with a potassium salt 
It is insoluble in alcohol and in an excess of KNO3 solution. 
Hence, for a rapid precipitation of cobalt as K3Co(NOa)B, the 
solution of cobalt should be concentrated by evaporation, the 
mineral acid replaced by acetic, saturated with KCl, and then 
treated with an excess of KNOg solution. If the mixture is 
now warmed and vigorously shaken, complete predpitatioD may 
be secured in a half hour. 

7. NitroBO-P-naplitliol, dissolved in 50 per cent, acetic acid, 
yields with a hot solution of cobalt, preferably the chloride or 
sulphate acidified with hydrochloric acid, a voluminous red pre- 
cipitate of cobalti-nitroso-/3-naphthol (distinction and method of 
separation from nickel, which, in HCl solution, does not give a 
precipitate). 

8. A borax bead, when fused with cobalt compounds either 
in the oxidizing or reducing flames, is colored blue. This test 
is not masked by the presence of moderate amounts of nickel. 

Manganese 

The manganese salts, which may be formed by the solution 
of the oxide MnO in acids, are colored pink in the crystallized 
condition as well as in concentrated aqueous solutions. In the 
anhydrous state, with the exception of the sulphide, they are 
nearly all colorless. 

Reactions 

I. Sodium or PotaBsittm Hydroxide produces with manganous 
salts a white precipitate of Mn(OH)s, which, on exposure to air, 
rapidly oxidizes, becoming brown: — 



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90 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

MnClj + 2 NaOH - 1 Mn(OH), + 2 NaCl; 

Mn(OH)a + O = | MnO(OH)a (manganous acid); 
MnCHOH), + Mn(OH), = I MnjOs + 2 HjO. 

2. Anunoniam HTdrozide yields with manganous solutions, in 
the absence of ammonium salts, a partial precipitation of white 
Mii(OH)j, oxidizing, as described in ( I), to brown Mn^Og. In the 
presence of a sufficient amount of ammonium salts, no immediate 
precipitate forms ; but, on exposure to air, MnO(OH)j is thrown 
down. The separation of manganese from any or all of the 
trivalent metals of this group by means of NH4CI and ammonium 
hydroxide is therefore incomplete. Non-volatile organic acids 
and sugar interfere with the precipitation of Mn(OH)3, 

3. Anunoniam Sulphide precipitates light pink hydrated man- 
ganous sulphide, which, on exposure to air, becomes dark brown, 
due to partial oxidation to MnjOg : — 

MnCla + {NH4)jS = \ MnS + aq. + 2 NH^CI. 

The precipitate is easily soluble in dilute acids (distinction from 
Ni and Co), even in acetic acid (distinction from Zn, as well as 
Ni and Co). The addition of ammonium chloride assists the 
precipitation, while the presence of oxalates and tartrates retards 
it. On boiling with a large excess of (NH4)3S, MnS + aq. is 
changed to a less hydrated green sulphide of the formula 
3 MnS . HaO. 

4. Lead Dioxide and Nitric Acid. If a very dilute solution of 
manganous salt, free from HCl or chlorides, is boiled with a 
gram of lead dioxide and a few cubic centimeters of con- 
centrated nitric acid, and allowed to settle, the clear super- 
natant liquid wiU be colored purple, due to the formation of 
permanganic acid : — 

2 MnSO* + S PbOj + 6 HNOg 

^\2 PbS04+ 3 PKNOg), + 2 HgO -I- 2 HMnO,. 

This reaction is suffidentiy delicate to detect a trace of man- 
ganese. 



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TBE METALS gx 

5. If a sodinm carbonate bead is fused with a very small 
amount of a manganese compound in the oxidizing flame, or if 
the fused mass, while hot, is quickly dipped into a little pow- 
dered potassium chlorate, a bluish green or green mass will be 
formed, due to the formation of sodium manganate, NajMnO^ : — 

Mn(OH)i + (heat) = MnO + HjO ; 
MnO(OH)3 + (heat) = MnO^ + HaO ; 
MnO + NaaCOg + 05 = 1 COj + Na^MnOj ; 
MnOj + NaCOg + O = -t COj + NajMnO,. 

Zinc 
Most of the zinc salts are colorless ; some are soluble in water, 
and the others are dissolved by acids. 

1. Sodium or Potassiam Hydroxide precipitates white gelati- 
nous zinc hydroxide, readily soluble in excess with the formation 
of sodium zincate [similar to Al, distinction from Fe(-ic) and 
Mn]: — 

ZnClj + 2 NaOH = \ Zn(OH)j + 2 NaCl ; 
Zn(OH)a + 2 NaOH = NaaZnOj + 2 HjO. 

Unless the solution of the zincate contains a decided excess of - 
NaOH, it will he decomposed on boiling with the reprecipitatioa 
of the hydroxide : — 

NaaZnOa+ 2 HjO (boiling)2j2 NaOH +|Zn(OH)j. 

2. Ammoolam Hydroxide yields with solutions of zinc salts, 
in the absence of ammonium salts, a partial precipitation of zinc 
hydroxide, readily soluble in excess in the presence of ammo- 
nium salts with the formation of a complex ammonia salt : — 

ZnClj + 2 NH,OH = |Zn(OH)3 -f- 2 NH4CI ; 
Zn(OH)a + 2 NH,C1 + 2 NHj = Zn(NHg)4Cla + 2 HjO- 

3. Hydrogen Sulphide, when passed into neutral solutions of 
zinc salts of inorganic acids, incompletely precipitates white 
zinc sulphide (ZnS). A partial precipitation is also obtained 



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92 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

from solutioDs containing a small amount of free mineral acid. 
From solutions of zinc acetate, or from neutral solutiotis of salts 
of strong acids containing a moderate amount of sodium acetate, 
HjS completely precipitates all the zinc as sulphide on boiling. 
Warming in the presence of alkali acetate promotes the pre- 
cipitation : — 

(a) ZnClj + HjS^IZnS + 2 HCl ; 

(^) ZnCl, + 2 NaCaHgOj + HaS=|ZnS + 2 NaCl+2 HCjHBOa- 

As ZnS is soluble in HCI, the precipitation in (a) is never com- 
plete. In equation (i), NaCaHjOj has the effect of displacing 
the strong HCl by the weak acetic acid, in which ZnS is prac- 
tically insoluble.* 

The tendency of ZnS to pass through the filter may be over- 
come by precipitating the sulphide in a nearly boiling solution 
of acetic acid containing a moderate excess of NaCaHgOa, and 
filtering rapidly while hot. The precipitate may then be washed 
with hot water containing NH^CjHgO, or NHiNOg and HjS. 
Zinc may also be precipitated by HjS from sodium hydroxide 
solutions : — 

NaaZnO, -*- H^S = jZnS + 2 NaOH. 

4. Ammoniniii Sulphide yields in neutral and alkaline solutions 
a white precipitate of ZnS : — 

ZnCla +(NHj),S = |ZnS + 2 mn^Cl 

ZnS is readily soluble in dilute mineral acids, but is insoluble 
in acetic acid and in caustic alkalies. 

5. Any dried zinc compound, when moistened with dilute 
cobalt nitrate solution and ignited, will yield a green mass, due 
to the formation of a double oxide of Co and Zn (Th^nard's 
green). This is an excellent confirmatory test for zinc and 
serves to distinguish zinc from aluminum. 

* For in explsnatioQ of [hii fact sccocding to Ib« ionic theorj and mast action 
Utr see page 15. 



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TEE METALS 93 

OntUne of the Method of Analysis for Group III 

From an examination of the foregoing reactions, it becomes 
evident that if ammonia is added to a solution containing all the 
metals of this group, in the presence of a sufficient amount of 
ammonium chloride, all the trivalent metals (assuming the iron 
to be in the ferric state), viz., Fe, Al, and Cr, will be precipitated 
as hydroxides, while the remaining metals will be left in solution. 
This method would seem a desirable one for the separation of 
the third group into two divisions, and such a plan is, in fact, 
adopted by some chemists. We have not adopted this method 
for the reason that under the conditions given, manganese and 
zinc are not completely held in solution, and if present in small 
amounts may be wholly precipitated with the trivalent metals. 
However, the method gives fairly satisfactory results if the 
first precipitate of the hydroxides of Al, Cr, and Fe, containing 
some Mn and Zn, is dissolved and reprecipitated, and the second 
filtrate is united with the first 

Another reaction which may be utilized in separating the third 
group into two divisions is the basic acetate precipitation. This, 
it will be remembered, is based on the fact that in a nearly 
neutral solution containing a large excess of sodium acetate, a 
large amount of boiling water precipitates the basic acetates of 
ferric iron, aluminum, and chromium, while the remaining diva- 
lent metals are left in solution. This method of separation, one 
of the oldest in analytical chemistry, is exceedingly valuable in 
some cases, but it is not to be employed as a general method, 
because, as^lready pointed out (see under chromium, reaction 7), 
of its uncertainty in the presence of chromium. 

The method adopted in this book consists in precipitating the 
entire group with (NH4)jS after rendering the solution alkaline 
with NH^OH. Instead of (NH^)jS, the hot ammoniacal solu- 
tion may be treated with a stream of H^S until the precipita- 
tion is complete. In either case, the precipitate will consist of 
the hydroxides of aluminum and chromium, and the sulphides 
of iron, nickel, cobalt, manganese, and zinc. Since only the 
sulphides of Ni and Co are insoluble in HO (i 19), it follows 



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94 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

that if the third group precipitate is treated with a sufficient 
amount of HCl (l : 9) and filtered, there will remain on the filter 
the sulphides of Ni and Co, while in the filtrate will be found the 
chlorides of Al, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Zn. The residue, consisting 
of NiS and CoS, is next examined with a borax bead in the 
oxidizing flame, when, if not too great an amount of nickel is 
present, a blue bead will be obtained, indicating the presence of 
cobalt. To separate nickel and cobalt existing as sulphides, we 
must first get them into solution ; this is accomplished by heating 
with agua regia, which converts the sulphides into soluble 
chlorides. From the solution of the chlorides, the cobalt may 
be separated from the nickel by precipitation with either potas- 
sium nitrite or nitroso-|3-naphthol. The nickel in the filtrate 
may be precipitated with NaOH and the resulting green hy- 
droxide verified with a borax bead test. The main filtrate 
contains, besides the chlorides of Al, Cr, Fe, Mn, and Zn, an excess 
of HCl and H,S. The greater part of the HCl and all of the 
HjS are expelled by boiling down to a few cc. It will be recalled 
■that in the cold, the hydroxides of Al, Cr, and Zn are soluble 
in excess of sodium hydroxide, forming, respectively, an alumi- 
nate, chromite, and zincate ; while the hydroxides of Fe (-ic) and 
Mn are insoluble. If an oxidizing agent like Br or HaOa is 
present, the chromite is converted into the yellow chromate, 
which is not precipitated on boiling. So that if a decided excess 
of NaOH and a little NajO^ are added to the main filtrate, which 
has been freed from HjS and the greater part of the HCl by 
evaporation to a few cc, and the mixture is boiled, diluted, and 
filtered, there will remain on the filter the hydroxides of Mn and 
Fe C-ic), while In the filtrate we should have sodium zincate, sodium 
aluminate, and sodium chromate ; the last will be evidenced by 
the yellow color which it imparts to the alkaline solution. In the 
residue the separation of Fe and Mn may be accomplished by 
dissolving the precipitate in HCl, nearly neutralizing the solution, 
and precipitating the Fe as basic acetate. From the filtrate, the 
Mn may be precipitated by adding Br and boiling, or by the addi- 
tion of an excess of Na^Oj or NaOH. When a rough estimation 
of the amount of Mn and Fe is not desired, separation is anneces- 



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TEE METALS 95 

sary, for we can readily identify each in the presence of the 
other. The presence of Mn may be determined by the charac- 
teristic green bead it gives when a little of the mixture is fused 
in a Na^COg bead in the presence of an oxidizing agent; the 
iron may be detected by dissolving part of the precipitate in hot 
dilute HCl and adding a few drops of potassium ferrocyanide, 
when a blue precipitate of prussian blue will be obtained. The 
filtrate from the Mn and Fe precipitate will contain sodium chro- 
mate, sodium aluminate, and sodium zincate, as well as an excess 
of NaOH. If this solution is acidified with HNOj, about three 
grams of NH^Cl are added, and then it is rendered slightly alka- 
line with ammonium hydroxide, only the Al will be precipitated. 
The zinc does not precipitate because of the presence of NH^Cl, 
while the chromium no longer acts as metal but as the acid 
radical (CrO,), and in consequence is not precipitated by am- 
monium hydroxide. The filtrate from the A1(0H^ will contain 
zinc, chromium, and a slight excess of ammonia. By rendering 
the solution acid with acetic acid and adding BaCl,, all of the 
chromium will be precipitated as BaCrO^. From the filtrate ' 
the Zn may be precipitated by HjS. 

Scheme of Analysis for Group HI 

This scheme is applicable only in the absence of non-volatile 
organic matter and interfering acids such as phosphoric acid. 

The filtrate from Group II., having been boiled to remove the 
HjS, contains, besides the metals of the succeeding group, an 
excess of HCl. 

Preliminary Test. To a small portion of the filtrate from 
Group II. which has been freed from HjS, add 2-3 drops of 
concentrated HNOg and boU. Add about 0.5 g. of NH4CI and 
then ammonium hydroxide to alkaline reaction. A precipitate 
may be Fe(OH)a^ed). AlCOH), (white), or Cr(OH^ (greenish 
blue). If the amount of Mn in the solution is large, a small 
precipitate of MnO(OH), (brown) may also be obtained. If no 
precipitate forms, the absence of AI, Cr, and Fe is proved. If 
a precipitate is obtained, it is rapidly filtered and to this filtrate, . 



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96 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

or to the filtrate from Group II., ia which ammonium hydroxide 
produces no precipitate, (NH4)jS is added ; a precipitate proves 
the presence of one or more of^the remaining members of 
Group III., viz., Ni, Co, Mn, andlC^ty The color of this pre- 
cipitate sometimes affords an indi(iam)n of the metals present. 
If it is black, Ni or Co, or both, are present ; if white, Zn is 
present, and Ni and Co are absent. If pink, becoming brown 
on exposure, Mn is present ; the latter may at once be verified 
by the NagCOg bead + KClOa- Failure to precipitate with 
NH4OH and (NH4)jS in the presence of a sufficient amount of 
NH4CI proves the absence of Group III. In that case pass to 
Scheme IV. 



1. As a solution containing I part of Cr in 10,000 parts of water 
shows a. distinct bluish green coloration, a colorless solution need not be * 
tested for Cr. 

2. The (NH^,S used in the preliminary testing for Group III,, as well as 
that needed later in the preparation of the wash water for the Group III. ppt., 
should be nmde as needed by treating, a little dil. NH^OH with a stream of 
HjS for several minutes. 

3. Solutions of Ni and Co may be mixed in such proportions as to yield 
an almost colorless solution; an almost colorless filtrate from the ammonium 
hydroxide precipitate does not, therefore, prove the absence of Ni or Co. 

SCEEBIE m 
If the preliminary tests have shown the presence of Group III., the entire 
filtrate from Group II. is treated with 2 grams of NH,C1 (i) rendered alkaline 
widi NH,OH and then 2 cc. of strong NH,OH in excess are added (2). 
The mixture is heated and treated with a stream of H^S until precipitation is 
complete. Stir vigorously with gentle heating for a minute (3) and filter on 
a fluted filter. [The filtrate (4) is at once made acid with acetic acid (5), 
boiled until all the HjS is expelled (6), and filtered (7). The dear filtrate is 
recdved in a beaker, labelled "Groups IV. and V.," covered and reserved.] 
"The main ppt. may consist of A1(0H)b, Cr(OH)„ FeS.NiS, CoS, MnS, and 
ZnS. Wash once with hot water containing NH,a and a Uttle (NH4)jS (8), 
and discard washings. With the aid of a spatula, transfer ppt. to a beaker. 
Carry to a hood and add 60-80 cc. of HCl (sp. gr. 1.02), prepared by routing 
I part of cone. HCl with 9 parts of water, stir thoroughly (without heating) 
for about a minute; allow to setUe (9), and filter. 



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THE UETALS 



Betidtie is NiS + CoS + S (lo). Wash on filter once with HO (i : 9) and 
reject washings. Teat ppt. with borax bead in theO.F. A blue bead proves 
the preseoce of Co. Nickel may, however, be also present (11). A reddish 
brown bead proves the presence of Ni and the absence of a relatively large 
amount of cobalt. In either case, transfer ppt. to a small evaporating dish, 
carry to a hood, add 5-10 cc. of dil. ofua regia, and boil till all but a small 
amount of black S dissolves ; evaporate /(if/ to dryness (12). Take up with 
2 CC- of dil- HCl and an equal vol. of hot water; heat if necessary to effect 
solution. Filter through a very small filter into a test tube. Add NaOH 
drop by drop to the filtrate till a slight but permanent ppt forms. Dissolve 
the ppt. in acetic acid and add about 3 cc. id excess (13).* Saturate the 
solution with KQ (14) by adding the salt in small amounts and shaking 
after each addition until no more dissolves. Decant the dear solution into 
another test tube and to the latter add an equal vol. of KNOj. Allow the 
ppt, to stand with frequent shaking for about J hour and filter. Residue is 
KgCo(NOj)a (yellow). To filtrate add NaOH to alkaline reaction; a green 
ppt. (15) wbich yields a brown borax bead in the 0. F. proves the presence 

ofNi. 



Filtrate contains A1C1„ CrClj, FeOj, MnCLj, ZnO, + HjS + excess HO. 
Boil down in' a large evap. dish under hood to about i cc. (16) ; dilute with 
10 cc. of water, render strongly alkaline with char NaOH solution, and add 
(under hood and with caution) 3 g. of Na,0, (17). Dip finger into solution, 
rub on thumb ; a greasy feel indicates solution is sufficiently alkaline ; if not, 
add more NagOj. Boil with constant stirring for about i minute, add 10 cc. 
of water, and filter. 

*If B lolation of dimethylglyoxime is available, proceed tcata this point as fol- 
lows: Divide the solution into two equal portions. First portion test for cobalt by 
adding an equal volnme of KNOg solution and warming. A yellow precipitate is 
K(Co(NOa)«. Confimi with borai bead. Second portion test for nickel by tendering 
the lolutioa alkaline with NH4OH and adding I cc. of dimethylglyoxinie. A red 
precipitate proves the presence of nickeL 



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QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



BMl(li»i9Fe(0H), 
+ MnO»iH,0(i8). 
Wash with hot water. 
Test for Mn. On a 
Na,CO, bead take 
up a very small 
amount of the ppt. 
and heat ; while hot 
dip into a little 
powdered KClOj 
contained in a small 
watch glass. A green 
or bluish greea mass 
of Na^nO, proves 
the presence of Hn. 

Test for Fe. 
Transfer part or all 
of the ppt- to a test 
tube, aSd dU. HO 
and heat till solution 
takes place. If Mn 
has been shown to 
be present, boil until 
all the chlorine is 
expelled. Cool and 
add a few drops (19) 
of K,Fe(CN),; a 
blue ppt. proves the 
presence of Fe. 



FUtnte (20) may contain Na,A10j, Na^rO,, Na^ZnO, 
+ excess NaOH. Render slightly add with cautious 
addition of cone. HNO, ; add 3 grams of NH,C1 (zi), 
heat to boiling, and then add NH^OH drop by drop 
with constant stirriog until the resulting alkaline solu- 
tion has only a &int odor of ammonia (22)- (If too 
much NH4OH is added, boil off the excess and filter.) 



SMidne 



times and con- 
firm by wind- 



paper and ppt., 

with several 
drops of 
CoCNO^, (23) 
and igniting 
strongly. A 
blue mass is co- 
balt aluminate, 
j-AljOj.^CoO. 



FUtiat* may contain (NH(>tCr04, 
Zn{NH»)4Cli + excess NH4OH. Acid- 
ify with acetic acidr add a gram of 
NaCjHaOj {35), and heat to boiling. 
To the hot solution add BaCtj, drop by 
drop, till precipitation is complete ; allow 
to settle and filter through a double filter. 



Keddne is 
yellow BaCrOt 
(24). Confinn 
by treating ppt. 
on filter with 
hot dil. HNOb. 
Catch filtrate in 
a test tube. Cool 
thoroughly. 
Add I cc. of 
ether and i cc. 
39& HjO, and 
shake. A blue 
color in the 
ether layer 
proves the pres- 
ence of Cr, 



Elltrate, which 
should be perfectly 
clear (36), is treated 
with HsS. A white 
ppt. is ZaS (27). To 
confinn the presence 
of Zn, filter. Wash with 
hot water, and then 
moisten with 2 drops 
of Co(NOii)i- Wind 
Pt wire around papier 
and ppt. and inciner- 
ate. A green mass is 
yljiO-xQaO. 



1. NHtCl is added, first, to prevent Mg from predpitating with the Third 
Group roetals ; second, because it aids in the predpitation aud filtration of 
the sulphides by preventing them from going into the colloidal condition. 

2. The solution is made alkaline with NHa to neutralize the free add. An 
excess of strong NH.OH is then added to form with the HjS the (NH4)jS 
which predpitates all the metals of this group. Treatment of the ammoniacal 
solutiou with HiS is preferable to the use of (NHt)iS, fi>r the reason that with 
the former NiS is prevented from going into solution. If, however, (NHi)iS 



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THE METALS gg 

is preferred, the filtrate from Group II. after the addition of 3 g. of NHtCl 

should be first rendered alkaline with (NHi)OH, heated to boiling and then 
treated with an excess of colorless (NH4):S . 

3. Vigorous stirring and heating of the precipitate will have the effect of 
rendering it more compact and easier to filter. 

4. If the filtrate has a dark brown or black color, Ni Is probably present. 

5. The filtrate is at once acidified with acetic add to destroy the excess 
of (NH,)25, which, on standing, would oxidize to sulphate and precipitate 
the alkaline earths. Rendering the solution acid also prevents the formation 
of (NHJjCOg from the absorption of atmospheric CO,. (tiH,)fiOf, if 
formed, would also precipitate the alkaline earths. 

6. The H^ is expelled because, like (NHJ^S, it is capable of being 
oxidized partially to HgSO, on exposure to air. 

7. The residue obtained may consist of NiS (when (NH,)gS has been 
used as the precipitant) and coagulated S, and may be tested for Ni either 
with a borax bead in the O. F., or by solution of the ppt. in hot dil. HNO^ 
rendering alkaline with NH,OH and adding dimethylglyoxime. 

8. The precipitate is rapidly filtered with the aid of a fluted filter in 
order to prevent the atmospheric oxidation of the sulphides to sulphates ; for 
the same reason, it is recommended that the wash water contain, a little 
(NHj)jS. NH^Cl is added to the wash water to prevent the precipitate 
from passing through the filter in the colloidal condition. It is also well to 
keep the funnel covered as much as possible during the filtering and washing 
to minimize the oxidizing influence of the air. 

9. The separation of Ni and Co from the remaining metals by the use of 
HCl (i : 9) is not complete ; small amounts of Ni and Co may pass into solu- 
tion, while portions of FeS and other add-soluble sulphides may be mechani- 
cally inclosed by S and thus escape solution by the add. 

10. A black residue does not prove the presence of Ni or Co for the rea- 
son stated in note 9 ; it may be FeS indosed by S. It is also well to remetn* 

' ber that metals of the Second Group, that have not been completely predpi- 
tated by H^S, will appear at this point. 

11. The experiments of Curtman and Rothberg show that in mixtures of 
the sulphides of Ni and Co contdning as little as y^a CoS, a blue bead is 
obtained. With 2.5^ of CoS uncertain results are obtained, while with ify 
or less of CoS, the mixtures give brown beads. * 

12. Evaporation to 1 or 2 drops will siifBce ; if the evaporation is carried 
to the point of dryness, care must be taken not to ignite the residue. Should 
die residue be acddentally ignited, redissolvA in hot aqua regia and evaporate 
again to a few drops. 



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lOO QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

13. These conditions must be closely adhered to. KNO, precipitates Co 
best in a concentrated solution acid with acetic acid ; no mineral acid is per- 
missible, owing 10 the solubility of the precipitate therein. The free HCl is 
neutralized by the addition of NaOH in slight excess and the latter in turn is 
neutralized by acetic acid. Should a larger volume than lo cc. be obtained 
in making the test, it is recommended that the solution be evaporated to 
lo cc. before saturating with KCl. 

14. Under the conditions stated in Note 13, complete precipitation of Co 
by KNO, takes place after a lapse of 24 hours. By saturating the solutioQ of 
Co with KCl, in which K,Co(NO,)^ is insoluble, and by using an excess 
of KNOj, the precipitation of Co may be rendered complete ia a half hour. 

15. Not infrequently a precipitate of uncertain color is obtained with 
NaOH. In that case the presence of Ni cannot be considered proved until a 
characteristic Ni bead is obtained. It is however better to employ the di< 
methylglyoxirae text which is more sensitive and characterisdc for Ni. 

16. The solution is evaporated to I cc. to remove the excess of HQ 
which, if present, would neutralize the NaOH next to be added. The HjS is 
expelled at the same time. 

17. Na^O, added to water even in the cold decomposes, giving NaOH + O. 
At higher temperatures the decomposition takes place violendy. NaiO^ 
should, therefore, be added in small portions to the cold solution with con- 
stant stirring ; the final mixture, which should be strongly alkaline, must 
be boiled for a minute to decompose the excess of NajOj and the perchromates 
which first form. The Na^Oj furnishes the oxygen necessary for the oxidation 
of the chromite to chromate. It is important to remember that unless the 
solution is strongly alkaline, some Zn will be precipitated on boiling and 
diluting the mixture, due to the reversibility of the reaction, thus : — 

Zn{OH)i + 2 NaOH^NajZnO, + 2 H^. 

18. Any Ni and Co dissolved by the 1.02 HC will appear at tbb point; 
their presence, however, does not interfere with the tests for Fe and Mn. 

19. A decidedly blue firecipUate should be obtained if Fe is present. A 
blue coloration or a brown or white precipitate is not to be taken as proof 
of the presence of Fe. In making this test, car.e must be taken not lo add more 
than a few drops of K,Fe(CN)g, as the precipitate is soluble in an excess. 

20. If the filtrate is yellow, Cr is present ; if colorless, the test for Cr need 
not be made. A portion of this solution may be tested directly for Cr by 
acidifying with HNOj, cooling thoroughly, adding i cc. each of ether and 3^ 
HjOi and shaking. A blue color in the ether layer proves the presence of Cr. 

21. The NH,a is added to prevent a partial precipitation of Zn. 

22. An excess of NH^OH b to be avoided because of the slight solubility 
ofAKOH), in excess. 



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THE METALS lOi 

23. The Co(NO,)i solution mnst be very dilute; if strong, it will, on 
ignition, yield black CoO, which will obscure the blue color of cobalt Rumi- 
nate. The same applies to the conflnnatory test for Zs. 

24. It not infrequently bappiens that the solution contains sufficient sul- 
phates to cause a precipitate of BaSOj (while) to form along with the BaCrO, 
(light yellow), thus obscuring the test for Cr; hence the necessity of making 
the confirmatory test. 

25. The addition of NaCiHgO] represses the ionization of the acetic add 
with the result that the solvent action of the latter on BaCrO. is reduced to a 



26. If the filtrate from the BaCrO, is not clear, filter again, through another 
double filter, and repeat this treatment until a perfectly clear 0trate is obtained. 

27. If a black ppt., due to FeS, NiS, etc., is obtained, add dil. HCl, heat, 
and filter. Render filtrate alkaJine with NaOH, add a little NaaOj, boil, dilute, 
and filter. Test filtrate with HiS. A white ppt. is ZnS. 

28. A slight precipitate of Al(OH)s is nearly always obt^ed, bdng de- 
rived from the reagents as well as from the action of NaOH on the glass. 
Judgment must therefore be exercised in reporting the presence of Al in the 
substance analyzed. 

GROUP IV. THE ALKALINE EARTHS 
The alkaline earth metaJs, barium, strontium, ;.aicP,:cat(:^um, ,-'-, : 
are distinguished from the metals of the precediftig grpup by the '"' " 
fact that their salts are neither predpitated**tJ/'t^.-pt>r,J^," :',; 
(NH4)aS; they are grouped together and are distinguished from 
Group V. by reason of their common property of being precipi- 
tated by (NHj)3C05 in the presence of NH4CI. 

As the " analytical " grouping happens to be identical with 
their classihcation according to the Periodic Law, the order-of 
variation in properties becomes an easy matter to remember ; for, 
in most cases, the solubilities of the compounds of strontium are 
intermediate between those of barium and calcium. Unless the 
acid radical imparts a color, the salts of the alkaline earths are 
white or colorless, and, for the most part, insoluble in water. 

The sulphides, like those of aluminum and chromium, can 
only exist in the dry state ; when treated with water, they are at 
once hydrolyzed with the formation of the hydroxide and the 
evolution of HjS. 



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I02 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Reactions of the Salts of Barium 
Many of the salts of barium are insoluble in water; excepting 
the sulphate and fluosilicate, all are, however, soluble ia dilute 
hydrochloric acid. 

1. Ammonium Hydroxide (free from carbonate), when added 
to a solution of barium salts, does not yield a precipitate. If, 
however, the clear alkaline mixture is exposed to the air, or if 
ammonium hydroxide from the reagent bottle * is used, a tur- 
bidity results from the formation of barium carbonate. The 
hydroxide is not precipitated because of its ready solubility in 
water (i part in 20 of cold water): — 

BaCL, + 2 NHjOH =■ Ba(OH)j + 2 NH^Cl; 

Ba(OH), + COa = I BaCOj + H3O ; 

2 NH^OH + COj = (NH,)aCOj + HjO; 

(NH4),C08 + BaCla = | BaCOg +-2 NH^CL 

2. Ammoalam Sulphide (free from carbonate) does not pre- 
cipitate barium salts; on standing in the air, or with (NHj)3S 
from thejteagpnt bottle, a slight turbidity results from the forma- 

.."tioo of lAriiini carbonate. Reagent (NH^)jS, being an alkaline 
V iguidj:*iit m cdhsequence of absorption of atmospheric COj, 
; ^-ofltiiirtV little" (KHi)aC03, hence it will yield an immediate tur- 
bidity with barium salts : — 

(i) (NH^)jS + BaCl3= BaS + 2 NH^Cl; 

(2) BaS + 2 HjO = Ba(0H)3 + f HgS ; 

(3) Ba(OH)a + COa=:^BaCOB+HaO. 

3. Ammonium or Sodium Carbonate produces in neutral or 
alkaline solutions of barium salts a white amorphous precipitate 
of BaCOg, which, on standing or heating, becomes crystalline: — ■ 

BaCIj + (NH4)aC08 = | BaCOg + 2 NH^Cl. 

* All alkaliae liquids will, on exposore to' the air, absorb COg, intb th« fbn>i«tioa 
of carbonate proportional to the amoant of CO] alnocbed; the reagent ammonium 
hydroxide will, therefore, always contain a little {NH,)>COi, and hence will yield a 
d^ht precipitate with the salts of the alkaline eaiths (see equations). 



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TEE METALS 103 

The precipitate is slightly soluble in NH4CI; therefore, in very 
dilute solutions of barium salts containing much NH4CI, ammo- 
nium carbonate does not produce a precipitate. The precipi- 
tate is easily soluble in acids, even in acetic and carbonic 
acids : — 

BaCOg + 2 HCaHgOj = BsLiC^HsO^^ + HjO + f COj; 
BaCOg + HjCOg = BaH/COgV 
Boiling the dicarbonate decomposes it with the evolution of 
COa and precipitation of the normal carbonate : — 

BaHj(COB)j + (heat) = | BaCOg + HjO + f CO*. 

4. Dilate Solphaiic Add or any soluble sulphate produces even 
in very dilute solutions of barium salts a heavy, white, finely 
divided precipitate of BaSO^, practically insoluble in water (i 
part in 400,000 parts of water) : — 

BaCIj + HjSOj == I BaSOj + 2 HCl. 
The precipitate is insoluble in alkalies, and is nearly insoluble 
in dilute but is somewhat soluble in strong acids. Boiled with 
a strong solution of Na,COg, it undergoes partial decomposition, 
according to the equation : — 

BaSOi + NaaCOj^tl BaCOg + NagSO,. 

The decomposition is incomplete because of the reversibility 
of the reaction. If, however, the niixture is filtered, and the 
residue of BaCOg and unchanged sulphate is boiled with a fresh 
NajCOg solution, more BaSOj will be converted to carbonate. 
By repeating this process a sufficient number of times, one can 
transform all the sulphate to carbonate. As the carbonate, after 
thorough washing, is easily soluble in acids, it will be seen that 
this procedure offers a means of getting an insoluble sulphate 
into solution. 

A better and more etpeditious method of rendering the re- 
action complete consists in fusing the sulphate of barium with 
several times its weight of NajCOg. Under these conditions, 
the reaction proceeds to completion in one operation. On 
cooling the melt, boiling it with water, and filtering, there will 



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I04 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

rem^ on the filter a residue of BaCOg equivalent in amount to 
the BaSOf taken ; the carbonate is then taken into solution 
with dilute hydrochloric acid. The method of fusion with 
alkali carbonate just outlined is of general application and is 
employed where it is-desired to take into solution substances 
which are insoluble in water and in acids. The sulphates of 
strontium and calcium, though not as insoluble as that of 
barium, are sufficiently insoluble to be classed with insoluble 
substances and may be got into solution by the fusion method. 
PbSOi, SrSOj, and CaSOj may be completely converted into 
carbonate by the first method. 

5. Potassltim Chromate precipitates from neutral or acetic 
acid solutions yellow barium chromate : — 

KjCrOi + BaCla = \ BaCrO, + 2 KCL 

The precipitate is practically insoluble in water (i part in 
250,000) and in acetic acid (distinction from Sr and Ca), 
but is soluble in mineral acids. With potassium dichromate 
(KjCrgO^) only partial precipitation results : — 

2 BaCIa + KjCraO, + HaO = 1 2 BaCrO, + 2 KCl + 2 HCl. 

This is due to the formation of HCl, which exerts a solvent 
action on BaCrOj; the addition of sodium acetate will render 
the precipitation complete. 

BaCrOj, like BaSO^, is best precipitated in a boiling solution ; 
for under these conditions the precipitate is obtained in a form 
which can be readily filtered and washed, without passing 
through the pores of the filter. 

6. Ammonitim Oxalate precipitates from moderately dilute 
solutions white barium oxalate, somewhat soluble in water 
(i part in 2600) and completely soluble in boiling acetic acid 
(distinction from Ca) : — 

BaCIa + (NH4)aC304= | BaCaO, + 2 NH^CI. 

7. Disodlnm Phosphate precipitates in neutral solutions white 
flocculent BaHP04 ; in ammdniacal solutions, sodium phos- 



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TSE METALS loj 

pbate throws down the tertiary phosphate. The precipitates 
are easily soluble in dilute acids, even in acetic acid : — 

NajHPOj + BaClj = 2 NaCl+ \ BaHPO,; 
2 NajHPO^+3 BaCla+2 NH8=|Baj(P04)2+4 NaCH-2 NHjCL 
8. Fiame Reaction. Barium salts, preferably the chloride, 
when heated on a platinum wire in the bunsen Same, impart 
to it an apple-green color ; frequently it is yellowish green, due 
to sodium as an impurity. The reaction becomes more delicate 
if the wire is first moistened with concentrated HCL 

Strontium 
I. Ammoniain Hydroxide. Same as with Ba salts. 
a. Ammonium Sulphide. Same as with Ba salts. 

3. Ammonium Carbonate precipitates white SrCOg, more in- 
soluble in water than BaCOg; in other respects, it possesses 
about the same solubilities as BaCOg. 

4. Dilate sulpharic add or any soluble sulphate yields a white 
precipitate of SrSO^. The precipitate is more soluble in water 
(i part in 7000) and in acids than BaSO^, aad, as a consequence, 
is precipitated from very dilute solutions only after some time ; 
it is, however, much less soluble in water than CaSO^, the latter 
dissolving in water to the extent of i part in 500. -. 

SrSOj is practically insoluble in a strong solution of (NH4)2SOt, 
even on boiling (distinction and method of separation from Ca). 

5. Saturated CaSO^ Solution yields with dilute solutions of 
strontium salts a precipitate of SrSO^, which forms only after 
some time (distinction from Ba, which yields an immediate pre- 
cipitate). Precipitation in this case, as well as in 4, is promoted 
by heating, and is retarded by the addition of acids. From 
concentrated solutions of Sr salts, an immediate precipitate is 
obtained. 

6. Potassium Chromate does not yield a precipitate with dilute 
solutions of strontium salts or with concentrated solutions add 
with acetic acid (distinction from and method of separation from 



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lo6 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Ba). From neutral concentrated solutions, however, a yellow 
crystalline precipitate of SrCrO^ forms which is soluble in acetic 
acid. 

7. Ammonlnm Oxalate. Same as with Ba. SrCgO^ is only 
sparingly soluble in acetic acid. 

8. Disodlum Phosphate. Same as with Ba. 

9. Flame Reaction. Strontium salts, preferably the chloride, 
when heated on a platinum wire in the bunsen flame, impart to 
it a deep red color. 

Calcium 

1. Ammonlnin Hydroxide. Same as with Ba. 

2. Ammonium Sulphide. Same as with Ba. 

3. Ammonium Carbonate precipitates white amorphous CaCOg, 
becoming crystaUine on heating ; it is more insoluble in water 
than BaCOg, but in other respects its solubilities are about the 
same as those for BaCOg. 

4. Dilate Salpburlc Acid or any alkali sulphate does not pro- 
duce a precipitate from dilute solutions. From concentrated 
solutions a white precipitate of CaSO^ is obtained which is 
appreciably soluble in a hot concentrated solution of (NH^^SO^ 
(distinction and method of separation from Sr). A saturated 
solution of CaSO^, of course, does not precipitate Ca salts (dis- 
tinction from Sr and Ba). 

5. Potassiom Chromate does not yield a precipitate from 
dilute neutral solutions or from concentrated solutions acid with 
acetic acid. 

6. Ammonium Oxalate produces a white crystalline precipi- 
tate of calcium oxalate immediately from strong solutions and 
slowly from dilute solutions of calcium salts. The presence of 
free ammonia, or heating, facilitates the precipitation. The pre- 
cipitate is practically insoluble in water (i part in 170,000) and 
in acetic acid, but is readily soluble in mineral acids ; — 

CaC,04 + 2 HQ = CaClj + HjCaO,. 
This is a most delicate test for Ca. 



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TBE METALS 107 

7. Dlsodltun Phosphate gives the same reactioa as with Ba. 

8. Flame Test Calcium salts, preferably the chloride, when 
heated on a platinum wire in the hunsen flame, impart to it a 
yellowish red color. 

Outline of the Method of Analysis for Group IV 

With certain mixtures it is possible, with a Uttle practice, to 
detect all the metals of this group when occurring together by 
the simple flame reactions, as the characteristic colors do not 
all appear at the same time ; the latter fact is due to the differ- 
ence in the volatility of the chlorides. By an analysis of the 
flame colorations with the spectroscope it is not difficult to de- 
tect all the alkaline earths, even when they are all present to- 
gether in the same solution. But as the spectroscopic and 
flame tests do not distinguish between significant amounts and 
mere traces due to accidental impurity, they cannot be relied 
on to determine the composition of an unknown substance. 
They are, however, exceedingly valuable as confirmatory tests 
and for the detection of traces. If the filtrate from Group III., 
concentrated to a few cc, fails to yield a flame coloration, the 
absence of Group IV. would be proved, although the reverse 
would not hold. 

If the solution to be analyzed for Group IV. is the filtrate 
from Group III., it will contain a sufficient amount of NH^Cl 
to prevent the precipitation of Mg along with the alkaline 
earth carbonates on adding the group reagent, (NH^jjCOs- 
The precipitated carbonates are dissolved in acetic acid and 
from this diluted solution the barium is separated from the re- 
maining metals of this group by precipitation with KjCrO^. 
After filtering the BaCrO^, the filtrate will contain, besides Sr 
and Ca, an excess of KaCfjOj. By reprecipitating the Sr and 
Ca as carbonates, and filtering, they can be separated from the 
excess of chroraate. If the carbonates are now dissolved in 
acetic acid, and the resuhing solution is boiled with a solution 
of {NH^jjSOj and filtered, the Sr will be on the filter as 
SrSOj, while the Ca will pass into the filtrate. From the 



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io8 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

latter the calcium may be precipitated as CaC^O^ witli 
(NH4),Cb04. 

The separation of Sr and Ca by the use of a boiling solution 
of (NHj)jS04 is not complete; some CaSO^ remains undis- 
solved, while at the same time a small amount of SrS04 goes 
into solution. The necessity for making confiTTnatory flame 
tests is therefore apparent. 



The filtrate from Group III., which has been addified with acetic acid, 

boiled, and filtered from the coagulated sulphur and NiS, as described under 
Scheme III., should be perfectly clear; if cloudy, it should be boiled again for 
a few minutes and repeatedly filtered through a double filter until a perfectly 
dear liquid is obtained ; it should then be concentrated by evapiMstion to 
about 30 cc* 

Preliminary Test for Group IV. To a small portioa of the clear filtTa.te in a 
test tube add NH^OH to alkaline reaction and then a slight excess of 
(NH,)jCOg, and warm; a white ppt. proves the presence of Group IV. If no 
ppt. is obtained, the absence of more than traces (i) of the alkaline earths is 
indicated ; in that case proceed to Scheme V. 

If the preliminary test shows the presence of Group IV., the entire filtrate 
contained iu a beaker is made alkaline with NH^OH and is heated nearly to 
boiling ; (N H,)jCO, is then added in slight excess and the mixture b wanned 
(but not boiled) (2). The ppt. is allowed to settle and then filtered. The 
filtrate (3) should be received in a small beaker labelled Group V,, covered, 
and reserved. The ppt. may consist of BaCOj, StCOj, and .CaCOj. Wash 
once with hot water and reject the washings. Dissolve the ppt. on the filter 
with the least amount of hot dilute acetic acid (4). Make the volume up to 
40-50 cc. by dilution with water (;), heat to boiling, and, while boiling, add 
KjCrO, drop by drop till precipitation is complete. Allow the ppt. to settle 
and filter (using a double filter) by decantation. Finally, with the aid of hot 
water, bring the ppt. on the filter. 

* Any NHiG which separates out during the evapotation should be filtered ofT and 
rejected. The removal of an uimecessiiTily large excess of ammonium salts at thii 
point is a decided advantage, because it ledaces the amount of material that must be 
temoved by volatilization in the tubsequcnl examination for Group V. 



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THE METALS 



X09 



Kcsidne is yd- Filtrate (6) m^y contain Sr and Ca as acetates and 

low BaCrO,. K,Cr,OT. To remove the latter, add NH^OH to alkaline 

Wash twice with reaction and then (NH J,CO, till precipitation is complete ; 
;r and re- heat and filter. If no ppt. forms, the absence of more than 
washings, traces of Sr and Ca is indioted. Residue is SrCO, and 
Confirm by dip- CaCOg. Reject filtrate. Wash ppt. with hot water until 
ping dean Ft the washings are no longer yellow ; reject washings. Db- 
(9) mois' solve ppt. on filter in the least amount of hot dil. acetic 
tened with cone, acid, and dilute the resulting solution with an equal volume 
HCl into ppt., of water. 

andholdinflame. Prellminaiy Test for Sr (7), 'Pom Avery smail portion 

Do this repeat- of this solution into a test tube and add a little CaSO, so- 
edly ; a green lution, heat to boiling, and allow to stand for a few min- 
coloratioD ap- utes. (a) A slowly forming ppt. or doudiness indicates 
pearing after the presence of Sr; proceed according to (a), (b) No 
time con- ppt. or cloudiness proves the absence of Sr; proceed ac- 
firms the pres- cording to (S). ,■' 

ence of Ba (10), (u) If Sr is present, rendpr' the remainder of the solu- 

tion alkaline with NH,OH, add 5 cc. of (NHj)^0„ boU 
for a few minutes, and filler. Ppt. is SrSO,. Wash with 
hot water and confirm by flame test (8). Test filtrate 
for Ca by adding (NH()jCiOj. A white ppt. insol. in 
HCjHjOj is CaCjOj. Confirm by flame test. 

(*) Make solution alkaline with NH^OH and add 
(NH,):CaOj. A white ppt. insol. iuacedcaddis CaC,0,. 
Confirm by flame test. 



sarsa 

1. Teats for trace* of alkaline earths. If no predpitate is obtained with 
(NHf)^0„ treat a small portion of the solution with dilute H^O^, boil, and 
allow to stand for some time- A white predpitate o^BaSO^roves the pres- 
ence of Ba, Treat another small porti^^^^^|^|HHB8^kaline, add 
('NH4)2C,0,, heat to boiling, and allonM^^I^^*Cro^iness or white pre- 
dpitate proves the presence of Ca. Traces of Sr are best tested for by 
means of the spectroscope, 

2. The mixture must not be boiled, because at the boiling temperature 
(NH^jCOj is decomposed according to the equation — 

(NH,),COa = 1 2 NH, -h H,0 -H 1. CO,. 

The carbonates, which are first thrown down as an amorphous predpitate, are 
converted by heating and stirring into the crystalline form which can be 
readily filtered and washed. 



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no QVAUTATIVE CREMICAL ANALYSIS 

3. To insure completeness of predpitatjon, add a little (NHJ^CO, to the 
filtrate ; if a precipitate foims, add it to the first ; if no precipitate forms, pre- 
cipitation was complete. • 

4. This is accomplished by pladng a test tube under the stem of the fiin- 
nel and pouring on the precipitate a hot mixture of 5-10 cc of dilute 
acetic add and an equal volume of water, allowing the add to pass through 
the filter and pouri:^ the same add repeatedly through the filter till all the 
predpitate is dissolved. 

5. A preliminary test with K,CrOj should be made on a smail portion of 
this solution. If a predpitate is obtained, Ba is present and the entire solu- 
tion should be treated with KgCrO^ as described in the scheme. If no precipi- 
tate is obtained, Ba is absent: In that case the solution should not be treated 
with KjCiO^ solution, but on a small porlion make a preliminary test for Sr 
with CaSO, solution ; if present, treat the remainder of the solution accord- 
ing to (ii) ; if absent, proceed to (b) . 

6. BaCrOp even when predpitated in a boiling solution, may pass through 
the filter, yidding a doudy filtrate \ when this is the case, the filtrate must be 
boiled again and reliltered. 

7. It is important to use only a portion of the liquid for the prdiminary 
test. If by mistake the entire filtrate is used, the test for Ca obviously cannot 
be made. 

8. The confirmatory test for Sr b made by moistening the predpitate with 
concentrated HCl, dipping the wire into it and holding in the flame. A deep 
red coloration confirms the presence of Sr. If all the Ba had not been com- 
pletely predpitated as chromate, it will appear here as white BaSO^ but can 
readily be distinguished from SrSOj by its failure to yield a red coloration to 
the flame. 

9. A ptffectly dean platinum wire must impart no color to the colorless 
bunsen flame. When this is not the case, an impurity is indicated, and this 
may be removed by one of the followicg methods : 

(a) Any large partides of matter adhering to the wire must first be me- 
chanically removed. The wire is then dipped into concentrated C.P. HCl, 
contained in a weighing or small specimen tube, and then held in the flame 
for several seconds. The acid dissolves and thus removes some of the ad- 
hering material and partly converts some of the still remaining impurity on 
the wire into chlorides which are volatilized in the flame. Repeat this opera- 
tion several times ; finally dip wire into JresA add, and hold in fiame- It 
dean, it should give no color to the flame. 

Under no circumstances must tke wire, eUan or otherwise, he dipped into 
the reagent bottle of acid. The efiidency of this method will be indicated by 
the fact that the flame coloration becomes noticeably fainter with each treat- 



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THE METALS III 

(6) Shoold the above treatment, however, fail to cleanse the wire, it must 
be dipped while red hot into borax, and heated until a bead fonns. By prop- 
eriy manipulating the wire in the flame, the bead can be made to travel bade 
and forth several times over the entire length of the wire. It is then shaken 
<M. Should any solid material then adhere to the wire, it can now be readily 
removed by scouring with sand. The wire is then treated with concentrated 
HO as described in (a). 

10. The Ft wire need only be dipped once into the BaCrO, precipitate. 
After the first beating with HQ, it should be moistened with HCl again and 
heated. This is to be repeated several times without redipping into the 
BaCrO, precipitate. 



GROUP V 

Group V. embraces the metal magnesium, the alkali metals 
potassium and sodium, and the metallic radical ammonium 
{NH^). Magnesium is closely allied from an analytical stand- 
point to the alkaline earths, iot its hydroxide, carbonate, and phos- 
phate are insoluble in water. It has been placed in Group V. 
for the reason that in the course of complete analysis it will be 
found in the last filtrate along witii the alkali metals. This, of 
'ourse, is due to the presence of NH^Cl in precipitating the 
third and fourth groups. 

The test for NH^ is not made on the final filtrate, because 
the latter will always contain ammonium salts added in the form 
of reagents in the regular course of analysis. The test, there- 
fore, must always be made on a portion of the original 
substance. The other alkali metals, lithium, caesium, and 
rubidium, belong to this group, but have not been included 
because of their rare occurrence. 

Omitting consideration of magnesium, which serves as a 
bridge between groups IV. and V., it may be stated that the 
chief characteristic of the alkali metals is the fact that nearly all 
their salts are soluble in water; thus, the chloride, sulphate, 
sulphide, nitrate, phosphate, oxalate, carbonate, and hydroxide 
are soluble in water ; indeed, their aqueous solutions have been 
used as reagents. Excluding NH^, all the alkali metals give 
characteristic flame and spectroscopic reactions. 



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Iia qUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Magnesium 

Magnesium salts are colorless. With the exception of the 
hydroxide, carbonate, phosphate, arsenate, and arsenite, all the 
salts of magnesium are soluble in vater. They do not color 
the bunsen flame. Neither NH^OH, (NH4)3S, nor (NH^)3C0a 
precipitates magnesium salts in the presence of a sufficient 
amount of ammonium chloride, hence the classification of mag- 
nesium with the alkali metals. 

1. Ammonium Hydroxide gives a partial precipitation of gelati- 
nous magnesium hydroxide, Mg(OH)g, readily soluble in am- 
monium salts : — 

MgSO, + 2 NHjOH 5t| Mg(OH)j + (NH4),SO^. 

The precipitation is only partial in consequence of the forma- 
tion of an ammonium salt as a by-product of the reaction. The 
precipitate is readily soluble in acids. The solubility of the 
precipitate in NH^ salts, or, what amounts to the same thing, 
the non-precipitation of Mg salts by NH^OH in the presence of 
a sufficient amount of NH^ salts, is a phenomenon of the same 
order as that already met with in the cases of ferrous, man- 
ganese, and zinc compounds. 

2. Sodium, Potassium, or Calcium Hydrozide completely pre- 
cipitates, in the absence of NH^ salts, Mg(OH)j, insoluble in 
excess and nearly insoluble in water, the solubility being i part 
in 10,000. The washed precipitate is soluble in NH4 salts : — 

MgSO^ + 2 NaOH =| Mg(OH), -|- NajSO^. 

Boiling promotes precipitation. 

3. Ammonium Carbonate, in the presence of NH^ salts, gives- 
no precipitate. In solutions containing no NH^ salts, a white 
basic salt precipitates on standing or on boiling. The composi- 
tion of the precipitate is variable, depending upon the condi- 
tions of concentration and temperature : — 

4 MgSOi -I- 4 (NH^>,COg + HjO = 

I Mg,(COsUOH)a -I- 1 CO a + 4 (NH,)3S04 



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THE METALS 113 

4. Disodlom Phosphate, when added to a neutral solution of a 
Mg salt, precipitates fiocculent MgHPO^: — 

NaaHPO, + MgSOj = | MgHPO^ + NajSO,. 

If, however, NH^Cl and ammonia are added to the solution 
of a Mg salt before adding the sodium phosphate, a character- 
istic white crystalline precipitate of ammonium magnesium 
phosphate forms : — 

MgClj + NaaHPOi + NH8=4.NH,MgP04 + 2 NaCI. 

From dilute solutions the precipitate forma slowly, but it may 
be hastened by cooling and vigorously stirring the mixture. 
The precipitate is slightly soluble in water (i part in 13,500 at 
23° C), but is practically insoluble in 2.5 per cent, ammonia 
water. It is readily soluble in acetic acid. The addition of 
NHjCl prevents the formation of the hydroxide when ammo- 
nium hydroxide is added. This is a most delicate test for Mg. 

5. AmmoDlam Oxalate gives with dilute solutions of magne- 
sium salts no precipitate ; from concentrated solutions, however, 
it yields a white precipitate of MgCjOj. The presence of NH^ 
salts renders the precipitation incomplete. 

6. HgS, (NH4)3S, and HaSO^ do not precipitate magnesium 
salts. 

Potassium 

With the exception of the acid tartrate, cobaltic nitrite, chlor- 
platinate, and perchlorate, nearly all the salts of potassium are 
soluble. 

I. HydrochlorplatiaiG Acid (H^PtCIg) produces in neutral or in 
concentrated acid solutions of potassium salts a yellow crystal- 
line precipitate of potassium chlorplatinate (KaPtClj) : — 

2 KCl -t- HjPtCla =|KaPtCle + 2 HCl. 

From moderately dilute solutions the precipitate separates out 
only after standing, but may be hastened by cooling, stirring, 
or shaking the mixture vigorously in a test tube. This applies 
to nearly all crystalUne precipitates. The precipitate is soluble in 



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114 qUAUTATlYE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

alkalies ; it dissolves in water to the extent of i part in ic» at 
1$" C. It is practically insoluble in 80 per cent, alcohol. On 
ignition it decomposes according to the following equation : — 
KjPtClg = 2 KCI+|Pt +f 2Cla. 
Solutions of potassium iodide and potassium cyanide do not 
give this precipitate ; they should first be changed to chloride by 
evaporation with concentrated HCL As NH^ salts yield a simi- 
lar precipitate they must be removed before tiie test is applied. 

2. Tartaiic'Acid (HgC^H^Og) produces in neutral solutions of 
potassium salts, which are moderately concentrated, a white 
crystalline precipitate of potassium acid tartrate : — 

KCl + HjC^H^Ofl =|KHC4H40e + HCl. 
Precipitation may be hastened by vigorously shaking the mix- 
ture. The precipitate is soluble in alkalies and in mineral acids. 
A solution of sodium acid tartrate (NaHC^H^Og) is preferable, 
as it does not yield any free acid as a by-product : — 
KCl-f NaHC^Hp, =|KHC4H40, + NaCl. 

The solubility of the precipitate in water at 15" C. is i part in 
222. The reaction is a little more than twice as sensitive as i. 
Ammonium salts must be absent as they yield a similar pre- 
cipitate with the reagent. 

3. Sodium Cobaltic Nitrite [NaaCo(NOa)B] yields, with solu- 
tions of potassium salts acidified with acetic acid, a yellow pre- 
cipitate of potassium cobaltic nitrite [K3Co(NOj)g] . From dilute 
solutions the precipitation may be hastened by warming the 
mixture. The precipitate is soluble in water to the extent of i 
part in 11,000 at 15° C. and is therefore the most sensitive of 
the reactions mentioned. The test cannot be applied in the 
presence of NH^ salts for the reason that the latter yield a sim- 
ilar precipitate. 

4. Flame Reaction. Potassium salts, preferably the chloride 
and nitrate, when heated on a platinum wire in the bunsen 
flame, impart to it a violet color. The sensitiveness of this reac- 
tion was given by Bunsen to be 0.001 mg. KCl. The presence 



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e 



THE UETALS 115 

of even small amounts of sodium compounds interferes with this 
reaction by masking the color. If, however, the flame is viewed 
through several thicknesses of cobalt glass, the latter will absorb 
the yellow rays and thus permit the violet color to be seen. 

5. When heated just below a red beat, potassium chloride is 
not volatilized (distinction from NH| salts). 

Ammonium 
The ammonium salts very closely resemble the potassium 
compounds. They have the same crystalline form and, in gen- 
eral, about the same solubiUty. 

1. HydrocMorplatlnic Add (HjPtCIg) precipitates, under the 
same conditions given for potassium compounds (which see), 
a yellow crystalUne precipitate of ammonium chlorplatinate, 
(NH,),PtCle:~ 

2 NH^Cl + HaRCi, ^^NH^^jPtCla + 2 HCL 

The precipitate may easily be distinguished from the correspond- 
ing potassium compound by the fact that it is decomposed by 
an excess of NaOH with the evolution of NHg : — 

(NH4)jPtCle + 2 NaOH = NajPtCl, + f 2 NHg + 2 H,0. 

When strongly heated, it leaves a residue of platinum sponge 
only (distinction from the K compound). Ammonium chlorplati- 
nate is somewhat less soluble in water than the corresponding 
K compound ; it is insoluble in alcohol. 

2. Sodium Cobaltlc Nitrite yields with solutions of ammonium 
salts a yellow precipitate similar to that given by potassium salts. 
Hence before testing for potassium with this reagent, all the 
ammonium salts must be removed. 

3. Tartaric Add (HaC^H^Og) or NaHC^H^Og gives from con- 
centrated solutions of ammonium salts a crystalline precipitate 
of NH^HCjHjOj. The precipitate is soluble in acids and in 
alkalies, and is very much more soluble in water than the cor- 
responding K compound ; for this reason it is not a good test. 



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Ii6 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

It may be distinguished from the coTrespooding K compound 
by the evolution of NHg when treated with an excess of NaOH. 

4. Sodium Hydroxide. All ammonium compounds, when 
heated with an excess of caustic soda, potash, or lime, undergo 
decomposition with the evolution of ammonia gas; the latter 
may be detected by its characteristic odor or by the ability of 
the gas evolved to turn moistened red litmus paper blue : — 

NH4CI + NaOH = f NHg + NaCl + H3O ; 
2 NH4CI + Ca(OH), =: \ 2 NHg + CaCl, + 2 HjO. 

The evolved NHg may be further recognized by holding in 
the escaping vapor a piece of filter paper moistened with mer- 
curous nitrate solution. Ammonia, if present, will blacken the 
paper in accordance with the following reaction : — 

2 HgNOg + 2 NHg = |(NH,HgNOB + Hg) + NH,NO,. 

5. For the detection of minute amounts of ammonia, such, 
for instance, as are present in drinking water, an alkaline solu- 
tion of mercuric potassium iodide, known as Nessler's reagent, 
is used. With this solution, a yellow coloration is obtained 
which deepens in color, becoming brown with relatively greater 
amounts. With still greater amounts a brown precipitate is 
obtained. 

2{2KI.HgI,) + NH8+3KOH = |NHgjI-HjO + 7KI + 3HaO. 

6. All ammonium salts are volatilized at a temperature just 
below a red heat (distinction and method of separation from 
Na and K salts), some undergoing decomposition at the same 
time. 

SODHJU 

All of the salts of sodium, with the exception of the pyroanti- 
monate, are soluble in water. 

I. Potassium PTnantlmonate Solution (KtHsSbjO^) precipi- 
tates from neutral or slightly alkaline solutions of sodium salts 
that are fairly concentrated, a white crystalline precipitate of 
sodium pyroantimonate (NaaHaSbaO,). Precipitation may be 



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TEE METALS 117 

hastened by shaking the mixture vigorously in a test tube. 
Sodium pyroantimonate is soluble in boiling water to the extent 
of I part in 300 : — 

KaHjSbjOj + 2 NaCl = 4 Na3HjSbj07+ 2 KCI. 

The solution must not be acid, for then decomposition of the 
reagent results with the precipitation of amorphous pyroanti- 
monic acid : — 

KaHjSbaOT + 2 HCl = | H,SbjOT + 2 KCI. 

All other metals, with the exception of K and NH^, must be 
removed, for they too yield precipitates with the reagent 

2. HydrochloTplatJiiic Add, and Tartaric Acid, do not precipi- 
tate sodium salts. 

3. Sodltim Cobaldc Nitrite does not give a precipitate with 
sodium salts (distinction from K and NH^). 

4. Heated just below a red heat, sodium compounds are not 
volatilized (distinction from NH,). 

5. Flame Reaction. — Sodium compounds color the bunsen 
flame yellow even when the quantity is very small. Bunsen 
and Kirchhoff state that as small an amount as flftoiaflo of a 
milligram of sodium will give a flame test. To distinguish 
between a trace and a significant amount, attention must be 
given to the intensity and duration of the coloration. 

Outline of the Method of Anal;^ for Group V 
As the special tests for most of the metals of Group V. are 
not interfered with by the presence of the others, it is needless 
in most cases to effect their separation before applying the test ; 
thus, the precipitation test for potassium may be made in the 
presence of sodium, and the test for Mg may be made in the 
presence of all the alkali metals, for the latter are not precipitated 
by Na^HPOj. The test for Mg is therefore carried out on a 
small portion of about one-third of the filtrate from Group IV. 
It must, however, be remembered that NaaHPO, precipitates 
the alkaline earth metals; and as the latter are usually present 



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Ii8 QVAUTATIVB CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

in small amounts in the last filtrate by reason of the sl^;ht solu- 
bility of their carbonates in NH4Q, they must first be removed 
before the test can be applied. This is ax:compIished by adding 
a little (NH4)jS04 and (NH4)jCj04, boiling, and filtering off 
the precipitated alkaline earths in the form of sulphates and 
oxalates. The filtrate, after concentration, may then be tested 
for magnesium. 

The remaining two-thirds of the original filtrate is used for 
the detection of Na and K. As this filtrate contains a large 
amount of ammonium salts accumulated in the course of the 
analysis, and as the latter interfere with the precipitation tests 
for K by yielding similar precipitates, it is necessary to remove 
them before the test for K is made. This is accomplished by 
taking advantage of the fact that at a temperature just below a 
red heat, all NH4 salts are volatihzed. The NH4 salts removed, 
the residue is moistened with a little water, and the dame tests 
are applied. If an intense yellow coloration is obtained which 
persists for some time, the presence of Na is proved ; the flame 
may then be further examined for potassium by viewing it 
through several thicknesses of cobalt glass. If a violet-colored 
flame is obtained in the first place, Na is absent. In either case, 
a confirmatory test for potassium should be made by any one of 
the precipitation tests. 

Ammonium is not tested for in this group for the previously 
mentioned reason that NH4 compounds in the form of reagents 
have been added to the solutdon in the course of the analysis. 
The test, which consists in Uberating NH, by heating with an 
excess of NaOH, must, therefore, always be made on a separate 
portion of the ordinal substance. 



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THE METALS 



SCHBHB T 



Asalyalf of the Filbate from &Dnp IV 
This will contain, besides Mg and the alkalies, traces of the 
alkaline earths which were dissolved by NH^Cl. Divide into 
two unequal portions. 

In J test for Mg. Add a few drops of (NHJ^O, and (NH^jCjO^, boU 
and filter. Reject any ppt. which may form (i). Concentrate the filtrate bj 
evap. to 5 cc. (should any ammonium salts crystallize out, filter and reject).' 
To filtrate contained in a test tube add NH4OH to alkaline reaction and then 
add Na^HPO,. Shake vigorously and allow to stand several minutes. A 
white ctyst. ppt. which b soluble in acetic add is NHjMgPOj. 

In \ teat for Na and K. Evap. in a targe evap. dish, if the vol. of the 
solution is large, to about i; cc- Transfer to a small dish and continue to 
ev^. over a wire gauze until sputtering occurs ; then cover dish with a watch 
glass and gently heat until the mass is perfectly dry. By means of a glass 
rod, transfer to dish particles of salt adhering to the watch glass, place 
uncovered dish on a pipestem triangle, and ignite (under hood) until no 
more iiimes of NH^CI are given off, being careful to keep the dbh belme a red 
heat and to heat the sides and rim as well as the bottom of the dish. With 
the iud of a glass rod scrape any salt adhering to the sides of the dish into the 
center, and stir up salt at the bottom as much as possible ; ignite again until 
no more NH,0 (a) is given off. Cool. Transfer a small portion of the 
residue to a watch glass, moisten with a drop of HQ, dip dean Pt wire into 
it, and hold in flanie. A violet coloration proves the presence of K and 
absence of Na. An intense yellow coloration (3) which persists for some 
time proves the presence of Na ; in that case, examine flame for K either 
with several thicknesses of cobalt glass or better with a spectroscope (4). 

Teat for K. The remainder of the residue in the dish is dissolved in the 
least amt of hot water (3 cc.) just addified with acetic add, and is filtered 
through a small filter. To filtrate in a test tube add i cc of NajCo(NO,)^ 
warm, ahd allow to stand for several minutes. A yellow ppL confirms the 
presence of K. 

Test for HH,. This test is always made on a small portion of the ordinal 
substance and never on the filtrate &om Groups III. and IV. To about 
S cc. of the (Vj^wo/ solution or 0.3 — 0.5 g. of the original solid substance 
contained in a small beaker, add NaOH till the resulting mixture, aAei 
thorough stirring, is deddedly alkaline. Heat with stirring (5). Ammonia, 
if present, will be made evident by its characteristic odor and by Its ability to 
turn bhie a piece of red litmus paper held above the beaker. 



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I20 QUALITATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

VOTES OB SCHEME V 

1. Na^PO, precipitates all the metals except the alkalies and As, so that 
the test for Mg can only be made in the absence of these metals. A floccn- 
lent precipitate of AIPO4 sometimes aepaiates on adding Na^PO^ but the 
latter is easily distinguished from NH^MgPO^ by reason of its insolubility in 
acetic add. In concentrating the soludon to j cc., Al(OH)) may separate 
out ; in that case, it should be filtered off before adding the Na^PO,. 

Should a precipitate of doubtful form be obt;uned with Na^PO, and it is 
desired to confirm the presence of Mg, the precipitate on the filter should be 
treated with a little acetic add, the resulting dear filtrate made alkaline with 
NH,OH, vigorously shaken, and allowed to stand for several minutes. If 
Mg b present, a white crystalline precipitate will form. 

It is not customary to remove the Mg before testing for the alkalies. 
Should it be desired, however, to estimate the amount of K and Na, the Mg 
may be removed by first expelling NH4 salts by evaporation of the solution to 
dryness and thoroughly igniting the residue. The latter is then dissolved in 
water and the Mg is predpitated with Ba(OH), solution, filtered, and the Ba 
in the filtrate removed by predpitation with sulphuric acid, or with NH4OH 
and (NHJjCO,. 

2. Unless the last traces of NH^ salts are reop^wl, the predpitation test 
for K will b^j^^less for t'he reason that NtCwi^^yield a similar predpi- 
tate. During'fl^ygnition, the bottom of t^c^fetf must not be allowed to 
reach a red G^ffise there will be dafl^-'of volatilizing NaCl and KCl. A 
small amount of slack carbonaceous matter (dueito carbonization of small 
quantities of pyfJRline which is usually present in the NH,OH) is left behind 
along with the vhlorides of K and Na. This is, however, removed later 
when the residue is treated with water and filtered before making the pre- ' 
dpitation test for K. 

3. A fleeting ydlow coloration is not to be taken as evidence of the pres- 
ence of Na. The coloration should persist for at least 6 seconds. 

4. The test for K should be confirmed always by a predpitation test. 

5. Stirring the mixture while heating is important because of the tendency 
of the mixture to bump and the consequent danger of having the strongly 
alkaGne mixture spurted into the eyes. Care should be taken in heating and 
stirring to prevent any.of the alkaline liquid from coming in-contact with the 
litmus paper. Failure to observe this precaution will vitiate the test. 

If the ori^nal material is a solid instead of a solution, it is not necessary 
to get it into solution in order to test for NH,. To a portion of the solid 
substance in a beaker, add NaOH in slight excess, forming a paste, and heat 
gently with stirring. The odor of NH, eVojjjpd . will prove the presence of 



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THE METALS 



ANALYSIS OF UNKNOWN SOLUTIONS FOR ALL GROUPS 
To 25 cc. of station add HCI a^d filter. 



AgCl,Pba» 
HgO. 

Analyze ac- 
cording to 
Scheme I. 



Filtrate contains Groups IL-V. Bring to proper coaditioni 
of acidity and pass in HtS. Filter. 



Kealdne: 
HgS, PbS, 
Bi,S„ CuS, 
CdS, As,S^ 
SbzS,, SnS. 
Wash and 

(NH4)iS,. 
Filter, 
Analyze . 
residue ac- 
cordin|L to 
SchemSli 
II., A. 
Analyze 
filtrate ac- 
xording to 
Scheme 
II. B. 



Filtrate : Boil to expel H;S before proceeding 
with the analjsb of Group 11. ppt. Add NHfC^ 
make alkaline with NH^OH, and completely ppt. 
with H,S or (NH^jS ; filter. 



- Beaidue: 
AlCOH)„ 
Cr(OH)„ 
FeS, NiS, 
^oS, MnS, 
ZnS. 

Analyse ac- 
cord! i^ to 



Filtrate is at once acidified with 
acetic add and boiled to expel H,S, 
and ihefi filtered. Make dear filtrate 
alkaline with NH4OH, add 
(NHj>,CO„ and-'filter. 



BaCO,, SiCOs 
-l-CaCO,.' ' 
Ana^ze ac- 
cording to 
Sdicme IV. 



Filtrata will con- 
tain Mg and the " al- 
kalies." Divideinto 
tno portions : | test 
for Mg according to 
Scheme "V; i test 
for Na and K accord- 
ing to Scheme V. 



Test tax NH^ is made on a separate pMl^iiLaGcordiiig to Scheme V 



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PART 11 

THE ACIDS 

It is customary to arrange the acids into groups according to 
their deportment with two reagents, viz., BaClg and AgNOg. 
Three groups are thus distinguished. 

Group I. includes those acids whose barium or calcium salts 
are insoluble in water; they are therefore precipitated from 
neutral solutions by BaCI,. This group is divided into two 
parts, namely: (a) Acids precipitated by BaCl^ from solu- 
tions a«i/ with HCI, viz,, sulphuric acid (H^SO^) and hydrofluo- 
silicic acid (HjSiFg); {d) Acids precipitated by BaCl^ from 
neutral solutions only, viz., carbonic acid (HjCOg), sulphurous 
acid (HjSOg), thiosulphuric acid (H^SjOg), phosphoric acid 
(HgPO,), hydrofluoric acid (HF), oxaUc acid (HaCjO^), boric 
add (HgBOa),* silicic acid (HaSiOB),t tartaric acid (HaC^H^O,), 
arsenic acid (HgAsO^), arsenious acid (HjAsOg), and chromic 
acid (HjCrOJ. 

Group II. includes those acids whose barium salts are soluble 
in water, but whose silver salts are insoluble in nitric acid ; they 
are therefore precipitated by AgNOg from solutions acid with 
nitric acid. These acids follow : — 

Hydrochloric acid (HCI), hydrobromic acid (HBr), hydriodic 
acid, (HI), hydrocyanic acid (HCN), hydrogen sulphide (HjS), 
hydroferrocyanic acid [HjFe(CN)g], hydroferricyanic acid 
[H8Fe(CN)8], thiocyanic acid (HSCN), and nitrous acid 
(HNOj); the last is, however, only precipitated from moderately 

• Orthoboric (eid (HtBOt) is here coniideTed u, lepreieDtktiTe of the acidi of 
t MetuOicic add (HiSiOg) i« Uken u the type of the many lilicic acids. 



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124 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

concentrated solutions and is therefore also placed in the next 
group. 

Group III. includes those adds that are not precipitated by 
either BaCl, or AgNOg, viz., nitric acid (HNOg), nitrous acid 
(HNOa), chloric acid (HClOg), and acetic acid (HCjHgO,). 

Sulphates 

With the exception of the sulphates of lead, barium, strontium, 
and calcium, all normal sulphates are soluble in water. Stiver 
and mercury (-ous) sulphates are, however, difficultly soluble. 
Nearly all basic sulphates are insoluble, but readily dissolve in 
hydrochloric or nitric acids. Alkali and alkaline earth sulphates 
are not decomposed when ignited gently in a closed tube, but at 
higher temperatures more or less decomposition takes place. 
The behavior of other sulphates on being heated varies with the 
nature of the 'metal with which the SOj radical is united, some 
resisting decomposition, while others are readily decomposed, 
giving oflE SOj or SOj, or both, and leaving the oxide of the 
metal. 

Free sulphuric acid is recognized even in the presence of a 
sulphate by its property, when concentrated, of removing the 
elements of water from organic substances and leaving a charred 
residue; thus, if to a solution containing free HjSO^ a little 
cane sugar is added and the mixture is evaporated just to dry- 
ness, preferably on a steam bath, a black residue will be 6\y 
tamed. 

I. Bariam Chloride precipitates white BaSO^,* insoluble in 
water and in dilute acids even on boiling. From dilute solutions 
a precipitate separates only on standing. Dilute HCl or HNOg 

* From HG solntiom BaGi mty tlso precipitate BaSeOt and BaSiF«; the fonnet 
is teadily distinguished (iota BaSOt and BaSiFg by the &ct that on boiling it with 
concentrated HQ, chlorine is given off: — 

BaSeO, + 4 HQ = Bad, + H,SeO, + + O, + HjO. 

BaSiFt is easily recognized by its readiness to undergo deeompodtion when 
hcftted with concentrated H3SO4 : — 



BaSiF. + HjSO, = B^0« + +a HF + + SF*. 



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THE ACIDS 125 

should be added before tbe reagent in order to prevent the pre- 
cipitation of chromates, sulphites, and carbonates. Strong acid 
must not be used, for otherwise.a crystalline precipitate of BaCI^ 
or Ba(N03)2 may be obtained; these are, however, easily dis- 
tinguished from BaSOj by their ready solution on diluting. For 
further properties of BaS04, see reaction 4 under Barium. 

2. Lead Acetate produces a white precipitate of PbSO^, 
soluble in a hot concentrated solution of ammonium acetate or 
tartrate. 

3. Mixed with Na^COs free from sulphur compounds, and 
heated on charcoal with the reducing flame of a blowpipe, all 
sulphates are reduced to sulphides. If the fused mass is placed 
on a silver coin and then moistened with a drop of water, a black 
stain of AgjS will be produced : — 

Na^S -I- 2 Ag -H HjO +0=^ AgjS + 2 NaOH. 
This test is also given by other sulphur compoundi. 

Fluosilicates 

Hydrofluosilicic acid (HjSiFg) is formed by the action of sili- 
con tetrafluoride (SiF^) on water : — 

3 SiF^ + 4 H,0 = 2 HjSiFs -f- j H^SiO^. 

If the silicic acid, which is formed at the same time, is filtered 
off, the filtrate will contain an aqueous solution of hydrofluo- 
silidc acid. Both tbe acid and its salts are decomposed on heat- 
ing. On evaporating a solution of H^iFg, decomposition sets 
in, according to the equation — 

HaSiFg = fSiF^-|-t2HF. 

With the exception of the potassium and barium salts, nearly 
all fluosilicates are soluble in water. 

BaSiFg, formed by adding BaClg to a solution of a fluosilicate, 
is a white, crystalline, insoluble substance. Its solubility at 
17° C. is I part in 3700 parts of water. As it is sparingly solu- 
ble in HCl, it can be precipitated by BaCL, from solutions con- 
taining this acid. For a method of distinguishing it from 
BaSO,, see footnote, page 124. 



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126 QUALITATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Carbonates 
Carbonic acid (H,COg) is a weak dibasic add which is only 
known in solutioD. With bases it yields an important class of 
stable salts known as carbonates. On ignition, the carbonates 
of calcium and strontium are decomposed, while the normal 
alkali carbonates are but slightly affected; ammonium carbon- 
ate volatilizes on heating. Nearly all of the carbonates are 
white, and, with the exception of the carbonates of the alkali 
metals, all the normal salts are insoluble in water. The aqueous 
solutions of the carbonates and dicarbonates of the alkalies 
possess an alkaline reaction. Sodium dicarbouate, on ignition, 
is changed to the normal salt with evolution of carbon dioxide 
and water : — 

2 NaHCOg = NajC08+ f H,0 + f COj. 

1. All the adds, excepting HCN, decompose carbonates with 
effervescence, due to the evolution of CO] ; the latter may be 
recognized by its property of rendering turbid a drop of lime- 
water held in the escaping gas : -^ 

CaCOg + 2 HCl = CaCla + HjO + f COj; 
COa + Ca(OH)j - |CaCO, + HaO, 
This constitutes the chief reaction for carbonates from an 
analytical standpoint 

2. Baiitim ta Caldum Chloride, when added to a solution of 
a normal carbonate, gives a white precipitate of BaCO, or CaCOj. 
The precipitate is soluble in carbonic acid as well as in all other 
acids with the exception of HCN : — 

CaCOg + HjCOg = Ca(HCOB>,. 
From the solution of dicarbonate of calcium, CaCOg reprecipi- 
tates on boiling : — 

Ca(HC08)s = ICaCOg -«- HjO + f CO,. 

3. SUver Nitrate precipitates white silver carbonate (AggCOg), 
which, on boiling, changes to brown silver oxide (AggO): — 

Ag,C0g = jAg30-|-fC0a. 



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Sulphites 
The aqueous solution of sulphur dioxide, known as sulphur- 
ous acid, is a weak dibasic acid. When boiled it decomposes, 
giving off SOj, which may be easily recognized by its odor. 
Neutralized by bases, it forms sulphites, all of which are insolu- 
hle or nearly so in water, with the exception of those of the 
alkali metals. The solid salts, as well as their aqueous solutions, 
readily oxidize on exposure to air, forming the corresponding 
sulphates. 

1. Barlam Chloride precipitates from /r««/m/ solutions white 
barium sulphite (BaSOg), readily soluble in HCl and HNOg. 
In practice, a residue of BaSO^ remains, due to the presence of 
a small amount of sulphate originally present in the sulphite or 
produced by the subsequent oxidation of the sulphite. If the 
BaS04 is filtered off, the clear filtrate may be shown to contain 
sulphurous acid by adding a little bromine or concentrated 
HNOg and boiUng, when a white precipitate of BaSO^ will 
form. The bromine or nitric acid oxidizes the sulphurous to 
sulphuric acid, and the latter at once yields with the BaClj 
present a precipitate of BaS04. 

Free sulphurous acid is not precipitated by BaClg. 

2. Hydrogen Sulphide, when passed into a solution of sul- 
phurous acid, or a solution of a sulphite, acid with HCl, causes a 
separation of sulphur with the formation at the same time of 
pentathionic acid : — 

5 H^ + 5 H,SO, = HjSjO, + j S S + 9 H,0. 

3. Dilate H^^ or HCl, when added to a sulphite, decomposes 
it with the evolution of SOj : — 

NajSOg + 2 HCl = 2 NaCl + H,0 + f SO^ 

4. Silver Nitrate precipitates from neutral solutions white 
AgjSOg, which, on boiling, is decomposed, with the separation 
of gray metallic silver : — 

AgaSOg + HjO = 1 2 Ag + HjSO,. 



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128 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

5. Iodine Solatlons are bleached by sulphurous acid ; this is 
due to the reduction of iodide to hydriodic acid : — 

HaSOa + Ij + HiO:;;£2 HI + HjSO^. 

6. Potasslnin Permanganate solution, acid with sulphuric acid, 
is also decolorized by sulphurous acid: — 

2 KMnOj + 5 HaSOg = KjSOi + 2 MnSO^ + 2 HjSO, + 3 HaO. 
Since sulphur dioxide, which may be liberated from a sulphite 
(see reaction 3), is much heavier than air, it may be decanted 
into another test tube containing a small amount of exceedingly 
dilute KMnO^ solution. Now, on thoroughly mixing the gas 
and permanganate solution, the latter will be bleached. 

7. Potassium Dlchromate, when added to sulphurous acid, is 
reduced to a chromic salt; the reduction is accompanied by a 
change in color to green : — 

KaCraO^ + 3 HaSOj + HjSO, = KjSO* + CrgCSO,), + 4 HaO. 

8. Stannous Chloride, when added to sulphurous acid or to 
a hydrochloric acid solution of a sulphite, and the mixture 
heated, reduces the sulphurous acid to H,S, which, after some 
time, will precipitate the tin as stannic sulphide : — 

3 SnCl, + HjSOg + 6 HCl = t HjS + 3 SnCl4 + 3 HjO ; 
SnCl^ + 2 HjS = i SnSj + 4 HCl. 

9. Sulphurous acid reduces arsenic acid (HgAsOJ to arseni- 
ous acid (HgAsOj); the action is preferably conducted in a 
closed, pressure bottle heated in a water batb. It also reduces 
ferric to ferrous salts. 

10- Sulphites, when heated with sodium carbonate on char- 
coal, behave in the same way as sulphates (see reacdon 3). 

Thiosulprates 
Thiosulphuric acid _is unknown, for, when liberated from its 
salts, it at once breaks down into SO^ S, and HjO. The chief 
thiosulphate is the soolum salt (Na^SgOs), used extensively in 
photography because of its property of dissolving the halides of 
fftver. 



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1. Dilate Hydrochloric Add decomposes all thiosulphates with 
the evolution of sulphur dioxide and the separation of sulphur : — 

NajSaOs + 2 HCl = 2 NaCl + H3O + f SO^ + \S. 

This reaction serves to distinguish this class of salts from sul- 
phites, which do not give a separation of sulphur when so 
treated. 

2. Silver Hltrate precipitates white silver thiosulphate, easily 
soluble in an excess of sodium thiosulphate with the formatioo 
of a complex salt : — 

2 AgNO, + NajSaOg = | AgjSjOa + 2 Na^(08 ; 
AgaSjOg + Na^SaOa = 2 NaAgSaOg. 
Boiling decomposes the double salt with the separation of 
silver sulphide and sulphur. Silver thiosulphate, almost as soon 
as formed, owing to its instability, becomes yellow, then brown, 
and jinally black, with the formation of AgjS : — 

AgjSaOg + HjO = I AgjS + HjSOj. 

Phosphates 
Three phosphoric acids are known, viz., orthophosphoric acid 
(HaPOj), metaphosphoric acid (HPOg), and pyrophosphoric acid 
(HjPjOt). The most stable in solution, as well as the most 
important of these, is the ortho-acid. The others are converted 
into this form by boiUng with water, for example : — 

HP08+H,0=HgP04. 

Metaphosphoric acid, or the acetic acid solution of a meta- 
phosphate, is distinguished from the other two by its cbarac* 
. teristic property of coagulating albumen. 

Pyrophosphoric acid and Its salts are formed by heating the 
ortho- acid or its mono-hydrogen or mono-ammonium salts ; 
thus: — 

2 HgPO, = I HjO + H^PsOt ; 
2 Na^HPOi = Na^PaO, + f HjO ; 
2 NH^MgPOi = t H,0 -I- f 2 NHg + MgjPjO,. 



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ijo QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

With the exception of the alkali salts, all normal pyro- and 
ortho-phosphates are insoluble in water. All of the phosphates 
of the metals of Group IV. are soluble in acetic, hydrochloric, 
and nitric acids. Those of the trivalent metals of Group III. 
are insoluble in acetic but soluble in hydrochloric acid. 

1. Baiinm Chloride (BaClg) precipitates from neutral solutions 
of orthophosphates white BaHP04, soluble in acetic, hydro- 
chloric, and nitric acids ; from the acid solution, ammonia pre- 
cipitates the tertiary phosphate : — 

BaClj + Na,HP04 = | BaHPO^ + 2 NaCl ; 
BaHPO^ -I- 2 HCl = BaCl, -I- HgPO, ; 
H8POj-»-3NH8 = (NH4)3POj; 
2 (NH^^PO, -I- 3 BaClj = \ BaB(P04)j + 6 NH4CI. 

2. Lead Acetate [Ph(^^sO))i] pi'ccipitates white lead phos- 
phate, practically insoluble in acetic acid though soluble in 
nitric acid : — 

3 PKCaHgOa), + 2 NajHP04 = 

\ Pbi(P04)i -I- 2 HCaHgOa + 4 NaC,HsO^ 

3. Silver Nitrate precipitates only from strictly neutral solu- 
tions yellow silver phosphate (AggPOf), soluble in mineral acids ; * 
it is also soluble in acetic acid and in ammonium hydroxide. 

2 NaaHPO, + 3 AgNO, = | AggPO^ -f 3 NaNOg + NaHaPO^. 

4. Magnesium ndxtnre (MgCl3+ NH^Cl -H NH^OH in slightex- 
cess) precipitates from solutions of orthophosphates, white crystal- 
line ammonium magnesium phosphate (NH^MgPOj-d H,0): — 

MgCIj + NaaHPO^ -f NHg » \ NH^MgPO, -I- 2 NaCL 

The precipitate is soluble in adds, including acetic add ; from 
solutions of the latter ammonium hydroxide reprecipitates the 
double phosphate (method of purification and separation from 
AIPO4, which is insoluble in acetic add). The precipitate is 
slightiy soluble in water, but is insoluble in 2.5 per cent, 
ammonia water. From very dilute solutions, the precipitate 

* With HO, B white predi^tate of AgCl is obttined. 



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TBE ACIDS 131 

separates only on standing; on ignition, it yields magnesium 
pyrophosphate (Mg,PgO}). For further details concerning the 
precipitate, see reaction 4 under Magnesiutn. Arsenates yield 
a similar precipitate, but the latter is rendered reddish brown 
on treatment with silver nitrate, due to its conversion into silver 
arsenate (AgjAsOj). 

5. Ammonlom Holybdate, when added to a warm nitric 
acid solution of a phosphate, yields a canary-yellow precipi- 
tate of ammonium phosphomolybdate of variable compositioii 
[(NH4)gP04, ■ 12 MoOj]. Precipitation may be hastened by 
heating and by having an excess of ammonium nitrate present. 
The precipitate is soluble in excess of phosphoric acid or of 
alkali acid phosphate ; hence, to secure complete precipitation, 
a large excess of the reagent is necessary. It is also soluble in 
alkalies, including ammonium hydroxide. 

Arsenic acid yields a similar compound with this reagent, but 
the precipitate forms more slowly and requires a higher tempera- 
ture for its complete precipitation. 

This reaction affords a means of quantitatively separating 
phosphoric acid from the metals with which it may be combined. 

6. Ferric Chloride, when added to a soluble phosphate not too 
strongly acid, yields a. buff-colored precipitate of ferric phos- 
phate (FePOj) : — 

FeClg + NajHPO^ = \ FePO^ -I- 2 NaCl -H HCl. 

As ferric phosphate is soluble in hydrochloric acid, the pre- 
cipitation by ferric chloride in the above reaction is never com- 
plete; by adding an excess of sodium acetate, however, the 
hydrochloric acid is replaced by acetic acid, in which FePO^ is 
insoluble, and, as a consequence, precipitation is rendered com- 
plete:— 

Fea8+Na,HP04-l-NaCjH,0,=3 NaCl-t- iFePOj-l-HCjHgO,. 
This reaction is utilized in removing phosphoric acid from 
solutions. 

7. Metallic Tin, when added to a nitric add solution of a 
phosphate, precipitates the phosphate as stannic phosphate, the 



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133 QUALITATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

excess of the tin separating at the same time as insoluble tneta- 
stannic acid. This reaction, like the one above, may be em- 
ployed for the separation of the PO^ radical from the metals. 

Fluorides 

Hydrogen fluoride, the water solution of which is hydrofluoric 
acid, at 19.5° C. is a colorless, highly corrosive liquid. Its aque- 
ous solutions attack the skin, producing painful sores ; it must 
therefore be handled with care. As its chief property is its 
abiUty to etch glass, it must be kept in ceresine, hard rubber, or 
platinum vessels. With bases, it yields salts, known ^^ fluorides. 

The fluorides of the alkali metals, with the exception of that of 
lithium, are soluble in water. Those of the alkaUne earth group 
are either insoluble or sparingly soluble in water. The fluorides 
of Cu, Pb, Zn, and many other heavy metals, are only slightly 
soluble, while those of Al, Ni, Co, Ag, Sb, and Sn (-ous) dissolve 
readily. 

I, Concentrated H^SO^ decomposes most fluorides with the 
liberation of hydrogen fluoride : — 

(i) CaFj+HjSOi^lCaSOi + fzHF. 

The reaction proceeds more rapidly if the mixture is heated. 
The HF may be recognized by its abiUty to etch glass (see re- 
action 2), 

If the reaction is carried out in a test tube, the hydrofluoric 
acid which is set free attacks the glass, with the evolution of 
silicon tetrafluoride : — 
(2) Na^Si^T - CaSigOT -I- 28 HF = 

*^ 2 NaF -«- |CaF, -I- f 6 SiF^ -H 14 HjO. 

When brought in contact with water, silicon tetrafluoride reacts 
according to the following equation : — 

(3) 3 SiF^ + 4 HjO = 2 HjSiFj -H iH^SiO^. 

The above three reactions may be utilized in testing for a fluo- 
ride. One need only heat the substance in a test tube with 
concentrated HjSO^ and then hold in the escaping vapors a 



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TEE ACIDS 133 

drop of water held on the loop of a platinum wire. In the pres- 
ence of a fluoride, the " water bead " will become turbid owing 
to the formation of gelatinous silicic acid. The test may also 
be carried out in lead or platinum vessels, if the fluoride is first 
intimately mixed with ignited silica (SiOg) before the treatment 
with concentrated H,SOj. 

The reactions are as follows : — 

2CaFa + 2 HaS04-.|2CaS04 + t4HF; 
4HF + SiOa = fSiF, + 2 H,0; 
3 SiFj + 4 HjO = 2 HaSiFg + 4 H^SiO,. 

3. The Etching Test This test, as explained above, is based 
on the property possessed by hydrofluoric acid to dissolve SiOj 
or glass. In a platinum crucible or lead dish, mix, with the aid 
of a piece of wood, some of the powdered substance with concen- 
trated sulphuric acid. Cover with a watch glass that has been 
coated on the convex side with paraffine and through which 
some characters have been scratched. Put a little water on 
the upper concave side of the watch glass to prevent the par- 
afRne from melting during the heating, and gently beat the 
crucible or dish, preferably on a water bath. After some time, 
remove the watch glass, warm it, and wipe the parafhne o3. If 
a fluoride is present in the substance under examination, the 
glass will be corroded or etched in those places where the glass 
has been exposed to the liberated hydrofluoric acid. It is evi- 
dent that this test is inapplicable in the presence of silicates. 
Anhydrous HF does not etch glass. 

3. Calcium Chloride, added to an aqueous solution of a fluo- 
ride, gives a white gelatinous precipitate of calcium fluoride 
(CaFa), soluble with difficulty in HCl and HNOg, but practi- 
cally insoluble in acetic acid. From the acid solution of calcium 
fluoride, ammonium hydroxide does not reprecipitate the fluo- 
ride, because of the solubility of CaFj in ammonium salts. 

4. Fusion with Sodium Carbonate only partially decomposes 
CaFj. In the presence of silica, however, the decomposition 
may be rendered complete. 



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134 QUAUTATIVE CEEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Oxalates 

With the exception of those of the alkali metals, magnesium 
and chromium, nearly all the oxalates are insoluble or sparingly 
soluble in water ; they all are soluble in mineral acids and in 
many cases in an excess of alkali oxalate with the formation of 
double salts. 

I. Barinm Chloride precipitates white barium oxalate(BaC304), 
soluble in oxalic and acetic acids. 

3. Caldam Sulphate or Caldam Chloride precipitates white 
crystalline CaCjO^, insoluble in oxalic and acetic acids, and in 
ammonium oxalate, but soluble in hydrochloric acid. As 
CaCjOj is one of the most insoluble of the oxalates, CaSO^ is 
an excellent reagent for the detection of this acid. 

3. Concentrated Sulphuric Add, when added to an oxalate in 
the sohd state, decomposes it with the evolution of CO and 
COj: — 

H,C,0^ + HaSO< = HjO + HjSO^ + fCO +tCOa. 
If the mixed gases are passed through limewater or sodium 
hydroxide, the CO3 will be absorbed and the escaping CO may 
be recognized by the characteristic blue Same with which it 
bums. 

4. Potassium Permanganate Solution, when added to a hot 
sulphuric acid solution of an oxalate, is bleached because of its 
reduction to a manganous salt, the oxalic acid bemg oxidized at 
the same time to CO, and water: — 

2 KMnO, + 3 HaSOj + S HjCaO^ = 

KaSO* + 2 MnSOj + 8 H,0 + f 10 CO,. 

5. Behavior of Oxalates on Ignition. At a red heat, all oxa- 
lates are. decomposed with the evolution of CO and COg. The 
oxalates of the alkalies and alkaline earths are converted by 
ignition into carbonates with little or no carbonization. Mag- 
nesium oxalate yields MgO when heated. All other oxalates 
leave either a residue of metal or an oxide, depending upon the 
ease with which the oxide is reduced. 



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THE ACIDS 135 

An oxalate may be decomposed by evaporating it with a 
mixture of HjSO^ and HNOs until SOg fumes are given off; 
any organic matter present will also be destroyed at the same 
time. 

Borates 

BoroD forms three acids, namely, orthoboric acid (HgBOg), 
metaboric acid (HBOg), and tetraboric acid (HaB^O^); the last 
two may be obtained from the first by careful heating. Salts of 
the ortho-acid hydrolyze in a water solution, so that the salts of 
boric acid we are concerned with are either of the meta- or pyro- 
type. Borates of the alkali metals alone are soluble in water, 
yielding solutions which have an alkaline reaction owing to par- 
tial hydrolysis ; all other borates are either insoluble or spar- 
ingly soluble in water, but are readily soluble in mineral acids 
and in ammonium salts. 

I. Turmeric Paper Test. If a piece of turmeric paper is 
dipped into a solution of a borate slightly acid with HCl, and 
the paper is then dried by placing it on a watch glass and heat- 
ing the latter on a water or steam bath, the paper assumes a 
reddish brown color. If the paper is now moistened with a 
drop of caustic soda solution, the color changes to a greenish 
black. 

3. Barium Chloride precipitates from concentrated solutions 
flocculent barium metaborate, soluble in excess of barium chlo- 
ride, in ammonium chloride, and in acids: — 

NaaB^Ot + BaClj + 3 HjO = 2 NaCl -|- 2 HgBO, -I- 1 BaCBOa)^. 

3. Calcium Chloride gives with borates reactions precisely 
similar to those produced by BaCl,. 

4. Silver Nitrate precipitates from cold concentrated solutions 
white silver metaborate (AgBOa), soluble in ammonium hydrox- 
ide and nitric acid; warming converts it into brown silver oxide 
(Ag,0). 

5. Flame Tests. Free boric acid and some of its volatile 
compounds, e.^., the fluoride (BF^its esters, as (CH,)gBO| and 



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136 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

(C3H,)gBOg, when brought into the bunsen flame, impart to 
it a characteristic green color. 

6. CODceatrated Solphorlc Acid, when added to a borate, de- 
cumposes it with the liberation of free boric acid (HjBOj). The 
test depending upon this and the above reactions is carried out 
by making a paste of the substance with concentrated HaSO^, 
taking up some of the mixture on the loop of a platinum wire, 
and holding it in the flame, when, if a borate is present in the 
substance being examined, the characteristic green color will be 
observed. This test does satisfactorily for most borates. For 
silicates containing boron, which are not decomposed by con- 
centrated HjSOj, it is necessary to mix the mineral with a little 
calcium fluoride before adding the sulphuric acid ; under these 
conditions, volatile boron fluoride (BFg) is formed, which, when 
brought into the bunsen flame, colors it green. 

7. Concentrated HgSO^ and Alcohol. If concentrated suiphuric 
acid is added to a borate and then a little methyl or ethyl alco- 
hol, and ^he mixture is stirred and lighted, the resulting flame 
will be found to be green at its borders, due to the formation of 
volatile methyl or ethyl borate : — 

HjBOs + 3 C3H5OH 5t 3 H,0 + 1 (C:jH5)gB0j. 

The concentrated HjSO, performs the double function of 
liberating the boric acid and absorbing the water formed in the 
above reversible reaction, thus causing the latter to proceed 
from left t6 right. 

8. Beharior on Ignition. Borates of the alkali metals, when 
heated, swell up (escaping of water), and finally fuse with the 
formation of a colorless glass; the latter, possessing as it does 
an excess of acid oxide, readily unites with metallic oxides on 
heating, with the formation of metaborates (borax beads) having 
characteristic colors. Thus, with cobalt oxide or any cobalt 
compound we obtain 

CoO + NajBjOT = 2 NaBO, + Co(BOi)a. 

The cobalt metaborate is blue. 

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THE ACIDS 137 

Silicates 

Silica (SiOj), the anhydride of silicic acid, occurs abundantly 
in a more or less pure state in nature as quartz, rock crystal, 
flint, agate, sand, etc. It is insoluble in water and in all acids 
with the exception of hydrofluoric acid ; the latter dissolves it 
with the formation of gaseous silicon tetrafluoride (SiF^) : — 
SiOj + 4 HF = f SiFj +2 H3O. 

To expel silica completely with HF, the presence of concen- 
trated HjSO^is necessary. When silica is fused with sodium 
carbonate and the mass is extracted with water, a solution of 
sodium silicate is obtained : — 

SiOj + NajCOa = NaaSiOg + \ COj. 

AH silicates are insoluble in water with the exception of those 
of sodium and potassium, which are soluble in water in the 
presence of free alkali. 

I. If to a solution of sodium or potassium^ silicate, hydro- 
chloric or nitric acid is added until an add reaction results, part 
of the siUcic acid will separate out as a gelatinous precipitate, 
while the rest will remain in solution in the form of a hydrosoi : — 
NajSiOs + 2 HCl = 2 NaCl -«- 1 HaSiOg. 

If the sodium silicate solution is very dilute, the silicic acid set 
free may remain entirely in solution. 

Precipitated silicic acid is somewhat soluble in water and in 
acids, and is readily soluble in alkaU hydroxides and carbonates. 

If an acid solution of an alkali silicate, which may contain 
more or less of precipitated silicic acid in suspension, is evapo- 
rated to dryness on a boiling water bath, the precipitated, as 
well as the dissolved, silicic acid loses water and becomes insolu- 
ble in acids ; therefore, on extracting the dried residue with hy- 
drochloric acid and filtering, practically all the silicic acid (about 
99 per cent.) will be left on the filter in a more or less dehy- 
drated state. The more complete the dehydration, the more 
insoluble does the resulting silicic acid become. This property 
of silicic acid of becoming insoluble in adds on dehydration is 



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138 QVAUTATIYE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

of great analytical importance, since it enables the analyst, 
early in the analysis, to completely separate the silicic add 
from the metals with which It was originally combined. 

2. Ammonlmn chloride or ammoniom carbonate, when added 
to a solution of alkali siUcate, causes a precipitation of meta- 
silicic add : — 

Na,Si08+2NH^Cl+2HjO = |HaSi03+2NaCl + 2NH40H; 
Na,SiOg+(NHJaCOB+2HjO = iHjSi03+Na,COg+2NH40H. 

3. Bariom Chloride precipitates white BaSiO^ soluble in 
acids. 

4. SilTer Nitrate precipitates yellow Ag^SiO,, soluble in acids 
and in ammonium hydroxide. 

5. Ammonium Holybdate solution containing an excess of 
nitric add yields, with solutions of silicates, a yellow solution. 
On heating in the presence of much NH^Cl, a canary-yellow 
predpitate is produced. 

6. Sodium Metaphosphate Bead Test. When a sili£:ate is 
fused in a metaphosphate bead prepared from microcosmic salt 
(NHjNaHPO,), the bases are dissolved to a transparent bead, 
while the silica in the form of a " skeleton " of the original mass 
remains undissolved as an opaque body : — 

CaSiOg + NaPOg = CaNaPO^ + SiOj. 

Treatment of Insoluble Silicates 

(fl) Silicates decomposed by Acids (not including hydrofluoric 

acid). The finely ground silicate * is heated in a casserole with 

* Powdering Mineiala. Since sabstances aie more re&diif soluble in a stale of 

fine powder than in the fonn of lumps, the process of powdering is always resorted to 
before the analysis of minetals, slags, and ores is begun. This is accomplished by 
first wrapping up in a clean towel a number of selected specimens of the sabstance, 
placing the latter on a plate of hard steel and breaking them iip with several sharp 
blows from a hard steel hammer. The resulting mixture of powder and coarse parti- 
cles is then introduced into a diamond steel mortar, in small portions at a time, and 
crushed to a coarse powder; the latter is then thoroughly miied, and about two 
grams or more are reduced to an extremely fine state of division by grinding in an 
agate mortar until Che entire quantity passes through a loo-mesb sieve. 



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THE ACIDS 139 

ctmceiitrated HCl " and is boiled until decomposition is com- 
pleta As a result of the action of the add, part of the silicic 
acid separates in the gelatinous form. The mixture is then 
evaporated to dryness, preferably on a steam bath, and the 
silica is completely dehydrated by beating the nearly dry mass 
in an air oven maintained at 120° C. until no more acid fumes 
are given off. The dried residue is first treated with 10 cc. of 
concentrated HCl and heated to dissolve the bases, some of 
which may have been rendered difficultly soluble by the dehy- 
dration process; water is then added, the mixture is heated 
again with stirring, and finally is filtered. The filtrate will con- 
tain all of the metals in the form of chlorides. The residue 
will contain practically all of the silicic acid and may be con- 
taminated with small amounts of the bases, chiefly iron and 
aluminum as oxides. To test the purity of the siUcic acid, the 
precipitate and a portion of the filter retaining the precipitate 
are placed in a platinum crucible, moistened with a little con- 
centrated ammonium nitrate solution to facilitate the combus- 
tion of the filter, and ignited until all of the paper is consumed. 
The crucible is then carried to the hood, placed on a pipestem 
triangle, and is treated with a few drops of concentrated H^SOj 
and about $ cc. of hydrofluoric acid. It is then gently heated 
to dryness and Anally ignited. By this treatment all the siUcic 
acid will be driven off as SiF^. Any residue is treated accord- 
ing to page 197 for insoluble substances.t 

(6) Silicates which are slightly or not attacked appreciaUy by 
acids in the above treatment are decomposed by fusing them 
in a platinum crucible, unless reducible metals are shown to be 
present, with ten times their weight of a mixture of sodium and 
potassium carbonates until the mass is in a state of quiet fusion. 
By this treatment, the silica will be converted into sodium 
silicate, while the bases will be variously converted into car- 
bonate, oxide, or metal, depending upon their nature. After 
cooling, the crucible with its contents is placed in a casserole or 

" When melsls of the fii« group we known to be present, it is preferable to use 
t The residue may comiit of AliOi, FcgOi, or B4SO4, or of all three sabsttoce*. 



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I40 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

evaporating dish, and is treated with an excess of hydrochloric 
acid.* The latter takes the bases into solution and at the same 
time decomposes the alkali silicate with a partial precipitation 
of silicic acid. The mixture is then evaporated to dryness, 
dehydrated at 120" C, extracted with hot concentrated add, 
diluted with water, and the silicic acid is filtered off and purified 
as already outlined. The filtrate is examined for bases and acids 
except those removed by the above treatment (see page 167). 

(e) Decomposition of Silicates with Hydroflooric Acid, (/nder 
a hood, treat about one gram of the finely powdered mineral 
contained in a platinum crucible or dish with about 10 cc. of 
hydrofluoric acid and 2 cc. of concentrated H,SOj, and evaporate 
on a hot pkte until SOg fumes are evolved. By this procedure, 
the silicate will be decomposed and the metals are left as 
sulphates. 

Treatment for the Detection of Alkalies In Silicates. If 
undecomposed by acids, except hydrofluoric, apply J. Lawrence 
Smith's method, which is given under the head of " Insoluble 
Substances." The hydrofluoric acid method is also suitable for 
the detection of the alkalies in insoluble silicates. 

Tartrates 

Solubilities. The normal tartrates of the alkali metals, as 
well as those of aluminum and ferric iron, are soluble in water ; 
nearly all others are insoluble in water, but are soluble in hy- 
drochloric and nitric acids, and for the most part are soluble in 
an excess of alkali tartrate with the formation of double salts. 

I. Concentrated Salphuric Acid, when added to a tartrate and 
the mixture is heated, causes a charring with the evolution of 
SOj. 

' a. Silver Nitrate does not react with free tartaric acid, but 
from solutions of normal tartrates it precipitates white curdy 
silver tartrate (AgaC^H^O,), readily soluble in nitric add and 
ammonium hydroxide. If the tube containing the ammoniacai 
solution of , silver tartrate is heated gently, preferably in a boil- 

' If metall of Group I. are known to be present, it is pieferable to we nitric mdd. 



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TEE ACIDS 141 

ing water bath, a deposit of silver forms on the sides of the tube 
in the form of a mirror. 

3. Calcium Chloride, added in excess to a concentrated solution 
of a neutral tartrate, precipitates white crystalline calcium tar- 
trate (CaCjHiOg), soluble in acids, including acetic acid; the 
precipitate is soluble in cold caustic soda free from carbonate, 
from which, on boiling, CaCjHjOg reprecipitates in a gelatinous 
form which redissolves on cooling- The precipitation of cal- 
cium tartrate is interfered with by the presence of ammonium 
salts. If CaClg is not added in excess, a white amorphous 
precipitate forms ; this dissolves in excess of the normal tartrate 
with the formation of a double salt. 

4. Potassium Salts, when added to a neutral solution of a tar- 
trate, give no precipitate ; if, however, the resulting solution is 
rendered acid with acetic or citric add, a crystalline precipitate 
of " cream of tartar " forms at once or after some time, depend- 
ing upon the concentration of the tartrate solution. For prop- 
erties of this salt, see reaction 2 under Potassiutn. Free tartaric 
add or sodium acid tartrate solutions of moderate strengths give 
an immediate precipitate with potassium salts. 

5. SehavloT OB Ignition. Tartaric add and tartrates, when 
heated, decompose with the evolution of inflammable vapors 
possessing the odor of burnt sugar ; a carbonaceous residue is 
left at the same time, consisting of carbon in the case of tartaric 
add or of a mixture of carbon and alkali carbonate in the case 
of alkali tartrates. The heavy metal tartrates on heating may 
leave a residue consisting of the oxide of the metal or of the 
metal itself. - 

Chromates 

Chromic add and chromates have already been mentioned in 
connection with the metal chromium (see page 74). They are 
all red or yellow. 

Solabillties. The chromates of the alkalies, magnesium and 
caldum, are soluble in water. Nearly all the others are insoluble ; 
most of these dissolve in nitric acid. The acid solutions are 



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143 QVAUTATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

always red, owing to the presence of a dichromate. The color 
of chromates, even in vety dilute solutions, is easily visible, and 
hence, in the absence of other colored substances, furnishes a 
delicate test for their presence. For a discussion of the reduc- 
tion of chromates to chromic salts and of the oxidation of the 
latter to chromates, see under Chromium, pages y6 and 74. 

1. Barium Chloride precipitates yellowish white barium chro- 
mate (BaCrO^), difficultly soluble in water but soluble in hydro- 
chloric and nitric acids. For other properties, see reaction 5 
under Barium. 

2. Lead Acetate precipitates from neutral or acetic acid solu- 
tions yellow lead chromate (PbCrO^) ; — 

Pb(CaHgOa)j + NaaCrO, = | PbCiOi-J- 2 NaCjHaOj. 
This is practically insoluble in water, acetic acid, and ammonium 
hydroxide, but is soluble in caustic soda solution, from which 
acetic acid reprecipitates the chromate ; it is also soluble in 
nitric acid- 

3. Silver Nitrate precipitates from strictly neutral solutions 
purplish red silver chromate : — 

2 AgNO, + Na^CrO, = j AgjCrO, + 2 NaNOg. 
Silver chromate is readily soluble in nitric acid and ammo- 
nium hydroxide. From slightly acid concentrated solutions a 
reddish brown crystalline precipitate of AgjCr307 is formed 
which possesses about the same soluhihties as AgjCrO,: — 

2 AgNOa + KjCrjO, = lAgjCrjO^ + 2 KNOg. 
The chromates of silver are readily converted into the chloride 
by treatment with HCl. 

4. Potassium Iodide, when added to a dichromate or a nitric 
acid solution of a chromate, is oxidized with the liberation of 
iodine ; a drop of CSj, when added and shaken with the mix- 
ture, acquires a violet color, due to the extraction of iodine. 
The chromic acid is reduced at the same time. 

5. Ethyl Alcohol (CjHgOH), when added to a chromate solu- 
tion acidified with HCl or H3SO4, and the mixture is boiled. 



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THE ACIDS 143 

causes a reduction of the chromate to a chromic salt, as indi- 
cated by a change in color of the solution from orange-red to 
green. The alcohol is oxidized at the same time to acetalde- 
hyde : — 

KjCfjOt + 3 CaHgOH -I- 8 HCl = 

2 CrClg -I- 7 HaO -H 2 KCl + f 3 CHgCHO. 

This method is frequently used to reduce chromates to chromic 
salts before treating a solution containing a chromate with HgS. 
For the equation for the reduction of chromates by concentrated 
HCl, see page 76. 

6. Hydrogen Dioxide Test. If to a mixture consisting of 5 cc. 
of dilute hydrogen dioxide solution, slightly acid with dilute sul- 
phuric acid, and 2 cc. of ether, a little chromate solution is 
added, and the mixture is shaken, the ether layer will acquire 
an intense blue color, due to the presence of some such additive 
compound as CrOg ■ HjOj, which, however, is very unstable. 
One part of K^CrOj in 40,000 parts of water is said to be the 
sensitiveness of this reaction. 

7. Insoluble Chromium ComiKmnds, when fused with sodium 
carbonate to which a little potassium chlorate has been added, 
and the mass is extracted with water, will yield an aqueous 
solution containing the chromium as chromate, while the resi- 
due will contain the other metals. (Note, however, the conduct 
of Manganese under similar conditions.) 

GROUP II 

This group comprises those acids which yield with silver 
nitrate precipitates insoluble in nitric acid. BaCl^ does not 
precipitate them. 

Chlorides 

Solubilities. All chlorides are soluble fti water with the 
exception of those of silver, copper (-ous), and mercury (-ous). 
The oxychlorides of mercury (-ic), bismuth, and antimony are 
also insoluble. Lead chloride is sparingly soluble in cold water. 
The normal chlorides of bismuth and antimony require the 
presence of free acid to keep them in solution. All insoluble 



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144 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

chlorides dissolve in aqua regia with the exception of silver 
chloride. Fusion with sodium carbonate transposes • all insolu- 
ble chlorides : — 

2 AgCl + NaaCOg = 1 2 Ag + 2 NaCl + f COj + f O. 

The chlorides of barium, sodium, and potassium are practi- 
cally insoluble in concentrated hydrochloric acid. 

I. Silver Nitrate precipitates from nitric acid solutions, white, 
curdy silver chloride (AgCI), which darkens on exposure to 
light; the precipitate is soluble in ammonium hydroxide and 
carbonate, sodium thiosulphate, and potassium cyanide. 

Besides the fusion method with sodium carbonate above men- 
tioned, silver chloride may be tested for chlorine by treating it 
with zinc and sulphuric acid, and allowing the action to con- 
tinue for several minutes. If, now, the mixture is filtered, the 
filtrate will contain the chlorine in the form of ZnCl, : — 

2 AgCl -I- Zn = ZnCLj -H 1 2 Ag. 

3. Lead Acetate precipitates white lead chloride (PbC^). For 
its properties, see reaction 1 under Lead. 

3. Concentrated H3SO4 and UnO,, when added to a chloride,, 
and the mixture is heated, oxidize the chloride, with the evolution 
of chlorine ; the latter is recognized by its color and odor as- 
well as by its ability to bleach moist litmus or indigo paper : — 

MnOa-l- 2 NaCl + 2 HaSO^ = MnSO^ + NajSO^ + 2 HaO + f Clj. 

4. Potassinm Dichromate and Concentrated Solpharic Acid> 
If a dry mixture of a chloride and powdered KjCr^Oj is treated 
with concentrated H^SO^ and heated gently, chromyl chloride 
(CrOaClj), a reddish brown gas, will be evolved : — 

KjCraOj +4 NaCl 4- 6 H^SOi == 

\ 2 CrOjClj -I- 2 KHSO, + 4 NaHSO^ -h 3 HjO. 

* When an insolnble lalt is treated with lodium carbonate, whereby the acid 
tadical ii comerted into a soluble sodium salt, th« compoond is said to be trantptaed^ 



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THE ACIDS I4S 

If the gas is absorbed by ammonium hydroxide, the latter 
will be colored yellow owing to the formation of ammonium 
chromate : — 

CrOaCIj + 4 NH^OH = (NH()3CrOj + 2 NH^Cl + 2 H,0. 

The presence of chromic acid in the ammonium hydroxide 
solution may be shown by rendering it acid with acetic acid and 
adding Pb (CjH803)j, when a yellow precipitate of PbCrO, will 
be obtained. 

This test for a chloride is of special value, for by its means 
chlorides may be detected in the presence of bromides. Iodides, 
if present in not too large amounts, do not interfere. The reac- 
tion with the bromide is as follows : — 
6 KBr + KaCrjOj + 1 1 HaSO^ = 

f 3 Br j+ 8 KHSO. + CrjCSO,), -I- ; HjO. 
The liberated bromine does not color the ammonium hydroxide, 
and hence does not interfere with the test Iodides behave in 
the same way as bromides. 

Bromides 

Solubilities. All bromides are soluble in water with the 
exception of those of silver, mercury (-ous), copper (-ous), and 
lead, the last being only sparingly soluble in cold water. Solu- 
ble bromides of the heavy metals are easily transposed by boil- 
ing with sodium carbonate solution. The insoluble bromides are 
tested for the halogen by fusion with NaCOg, extracting the 
melt with water, and filtering. The filtrate will then contain 
the bromide as NaBr. 

I. Silver Nitrate precipitates yellowish white silver bromide 
(AgBr), which darkens on exposure to light; it is insoluble in 
nitric acid and in cold ammonium carbonate ; it dissolves with 
difficulty in cold ammonium hydroxide, but easily in KCN and 
NajSjO,. Silver bromide may be decomposed by Zn and sul- 
phuric acid in the same way as indicated for AgCl. 

3. Chlorine Water, when added in small amounts to a solution 
of a bromide, decomposes it with the liberation of bromine. If 



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146 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

a few drops of carbon disulphide (CSg) or chloroform (CHClgX 
in which bromine is soluble, are added, and the mixture is 
shaken, the CSj or CHClg will acquire a yellow or reddish color, 
depending upon the amount of bromine present. The test is 
exceedingly sensitive ; i part of bromine in locxi parts of water 
suffices to give a distinctly visible result. 

KBr + a = KCI+Br. 

Care must be exercised in performing the test to add the 
chlorine water one drop at a time, and to shake after each ad- 
dition; for, if an excess is added, colorless bromine chloride 
(BrCl) may form. 

3. Potassinm Dlchromate, in the presence of cold dilute sul- 
phuric acid, does not liberate bromine from bromides (distinc- 
tion from iodides). 

4. Concentrated H1SO4, when added to a bromide, and the 
mixture is heated, causes the liberation of bromine with hydro- 
bromic acid. 

5. Concentrated H^SO^ and Hn<^, when added to a bromide, 
and the mixture is heated, causes the liberation of bromine ; the 
latter is recognized by its color, odor, and by its property of 
turning starch yellow and starch-iodide paper blue. 

6. Potassium Nitrite, when added to a bromide acidified with 
dilute sulphuric acid, does not liberate bromine (distinction from 
iodides). 

7. Potassium Permanganate, when added to a bromide solu- 
tion acid with sulphuric acid, and the mixture is boiled, causes 
the liberation of bromine, recognizable by its odor, color, and by 
its ability to turn starch-iodide paper blue. 

8. Nitric Add decomposes bromides, with the exception of 
AgBr, on heating, with the liberation of bromine : — 

6 KBr-l- S HNOg = ^ 3 Br^ + 6 KNOj + f 2 NO -»- 4 H,0. 

Iodides 

SoluMUties. With the exception of Hglj, Hgl, Agl, Cul, and 

the sparingly soluble Fbly all iodides are soluble in water. 



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TBE ACIDS 147 

Some of the insoluble ones dissolve in an excess of alkali iodide 
witlk tlie formation of double salts. Soluble iodides of the heavy 
metals ^e best tested for the halogen by first transposing by 
boiling with sodium carbonate solution. The insoluble iodides 
— like the insoluble chlorides and bromides — are best trans- 
posed by fusion with sodium carbonate. 

1. Silver Nitrate, when added to a. solution of an iodide, pre- 
cipitates yellow amorphous silver iodide (Agl), insoluble in 
nitric acid, and only very sparingly soluble in ammonium hy- 
droxide and cold ammonium carbonate (distinction from chlo- 
rides). It is soluble in potassium cyanide and sodium thiosul- 
phate solutions. Silver ioidide may be decomposed by Zn and 
HjSOj in the manner indicated for AgCl and AgBr. 

2. Concentrated H^SO^ acting alone on an iodide, yields hy- 
driodic acid and iodine, mixed with various reduction products 
of sulphuric acid, depending upon the temperature and the rela- 
tive proportions of acid and iodide. 

3. Concentrated H3SO4 and Kanganese Dioxide, when added to 
an iodide, and the mixture is heated, liberate iodine. The reac- 
tion is similar to those in which Br and CI are set free by the 
same reagents. 

4. Chlorine Water, when added drop by drop to a solution of 
an iodide, decomposes it with the liberation of iodine : — 

KI-t-Cl=KCl-l-I. 
The free iodine may be recognized by shaking the mixture 
with a few drops of CSj or CHCig; the latter solvents will ex- 
tract the iodine and acquire a reddish violet color. Free iodine 
may also be identified by the blue colored compound it yields 
when treated with starch paste. Inliherating iodine with chlorine 
water, care must be taken to avoid adding an excess, otherwise 
the liberated iodine will be oxidized to colorless iodic acid : — 
I, -t- 6 H,0 -I- 5 Cla = 10 HCl-l- 2 HlOg. 

5. Potasslom Nitrite, when added to a solution of an iodide 
acid with sulphuric acid, causes the separation of iodine, recog- 
nized by coloring CSg violet or starch paste blue. 



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148 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

In carrying out the starch-iodide reaction, it is important to 
have the iodine solution very dilute ; if it is at all concentrated, 
a nearly black precipitate, instead of a fine blue coloration, will 
be obtained. Potassium nitrite has an advantage over chlorine 
as an iodine Uberator, as an excess does not hinder the reaction. 

6. Cupric Salts, when added to a solution of an iodide, yield 
a dirty brown precipitate of cuprous iodide (Cul) ; at the same 
time iodine is set free : — 

2 CuS04+ 4 KI - 2 KjSO,-!- 1 2 Cul + 1 2 I. 

7. Ferric Salts also liberate iodine from iodides, being at the 
same time reduced to the ferrous state : — 

Fea( 504)3 + 2 KI = 1 13 + 2 FeS04 + KaS04. 

8. Potassinm Dlchromate, when added to an iodide solution 
add with sulphuric acid, causes iodine to be set free : — 
K,CraO,+6KI-(-7H3SO4=4KaS04+Cra(SO4)8+|3l|+7H,O. 

In all of the above cases the liberated iodine may be detected 
by shaking the mixture with one cc, of CHCij or CSj, which 
acquires a violet color. 

9. Hercttiic Chloride, when added to an iodide solution, pre- 
cipitates scarlet mercuric iodide (Hgl,), soluble in an excess of 
alkali iodide : — 

HgCl, -«- 2 KI - 1 Hgl, -H 2 KCI ; 
HgI, + 2KI=.KaHgl4. 

Cyanides 

SolnbilltieB. The alkali and alkahne earth cyanides and mer- 
curic cyanide are soluble in water ; nearly all others are insol- 
uble. The cyanides of the heavy metals dissolve in an excess 
of alkali cyanide with the formatiou of complex double salts. 

Heated with exclusion of air, the cyanides of the alkalies and 
alkaline earths fuse without decomposition. In contact with 
air, they oxidize with the formation of cyanate : — 

NaCN-l-O-NaCNO. 



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TEE ACIDS 149 

It is in consequence of the readiness with which they oxidize 
that the reducing power of cyanides is due. The cyanides of 
the heavy metals when heated in a closed tube undergo decom- 
position, the products varying with the nature of the metal : — 
Hg(CN)i,-Hg + t(CN),; 
Pb(CN)B=Pb + 2C + tNa. 

Cautioh : AJl texts for cyanides which involve the evolution of 
a gas should he performed under the hood. 

The cyanides of the noble metals on heating break up into 
the metal and cyanogen gas. By this means, the cyanides of 
silver and mercury allow themselves to be readily detected. 
Mercuric cyanide differs in many respects from the other water- 
soluble simple cyanides. It does not yield a precipitate with 
silver nitrate and is not decomposed by cold dilute sulphuric 
acid ; it is, however, decomposed by HgS with the precipitation 
of -mercuric sulphide and the production of HCN. 

1. Silver Nitrate, when added to a simple cyanide, excepting 
Hg(CN^, yields a white precipitate of silver cyanide (AgCN), 
easily soluble in excess of alkali cyanide with the formation of a 
double cyanide : — 

AgCN + KCN = KAg(CNV 
AgCN is also soluble in ammonium hydroxide and in sodium 
thiosulphate, but is insoluble in nitric acid. On ignition, it is 
decomposed with the evolution of cyanogen gas and the separa- 
tion of silver : — 

2AgCN=42Ag + f(CNV 

2. Snlphtuic Acid, dilute, when added to a solution of a cya- 
nide [except Hg(CN),], decomposes it with the liberation of 
HCN, readily recognized by its odor. If the dilute acid is 
heated, it is capable of decomposing the insoluble cyanides. 
If the acid is concentrated and hot, it will attack all cyanides 
whether simple or complex ; — 

Co<CN)a + 2 HjSO, + 2 HjO = C0SO4 + ( NH4)jS04 -|- f 2 CO ; 
K4Fe(CN>, + 6 HjSO^ + 6 H,0 = 

FeS04 + 2 K,S04-H 3 (NHASO, -h f 6 CO. 



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ISO QUAUTATIVE CSEUICAL ANALYSIS 

The above equations, which are typical, show that the metals 
are converted into sulphates, that carbon monoxide is produced, 
and that all the nitrogen is converted into ammonium sulphate. 

3. Formation of Ferrocyanide. If a solution containing an 
alkali cyanide is made strongly alkaline with sodium hydroxide 
and a little ferrous sulphate and ferric chloride are added, and 
the mixture is gently heated and finally made acid with hydro- 
chloric acid, a precipitate of prussian blue will be formed. The 
reactions which take place are the following : — 

(1) FeSOj + 2 NaOH = | Fe(OH)j + Na^SO* ; 

(2) Fe(0H)4 + 2 KCN = | Fe(CN)|, + 2 KOH ; 

(3) Fe(CN>, + 4 KCN = K,Fe(CN)B ; 

(4) 3 K,Fe(CN)o + 4 FeCla = | Fe,[Fe(CN)e]a + 12 KCL 

4. Formation of Thiocyanate. To a solution of an alkali cya- 
nide add a little (NH^)gS, and evaporate the solution on a 
water bath to dryness. The residue, which will now consist of 
ammonium thiocyanate (NH^SCN), is treated with one or two 
drops of dilute HCl, partly to insure the destruction of any 
undecomposed sulphide and partly because the presence of 
hydrochloric acid assists the final reaction [see reaction 5 under 
Itvn (-ic)] ; if a drop of ferric chloride is now added, a blood-red 
coloration will be produced because of the formation of ferric 
thiocyanate [Fe(SCN)B]. 

If it is desired to detect hydrocyanic acid evolved from an 
insoluble cyanide on treatment with hot dilute HjSO^, cover the 
test tube containing the mixture with a crucible cover, on the 
under side of which has been placed a drop of (NH4)jS„ and 
allow the action to continue for several minutes ; then invert 
the cover and dry on the water bath, and proceed as directed 
above for the formation of ferric thiocyanate. 

Ferrocyanides 

Hydroferrocyanic acid [HjFeCCN)^] is a colorless crystalline 
solid, easily soluble in water; on exposure to air the solution 



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THE ACIDS 151 

Isiecomes blue from decomposition. The salts of ferrocyanic 
acid arc much more stable than the acid. 

Solubilities. The ferrocyanides of the alkalies and alkaline 
earth metals are soluble in water ; nearly all the others are in> 
soluble or sparingly soluble in water and in cold dilute acids. 

1. Silver Kitrate precipitates white silver ferrocyanide, insol- 
uble in dilute nitric acid and in ammonium hydroxide, but soluble 
in potassium cyanide solution; — 

4 AgNOj + K^FeCCN), = | Ag^FeCCN), + 4 KNO^ 
On ignition, the precipitate is decomposed with the separa- 
tion of silver and evolution of cyanogen gas: — 

Ag,Fe(CN)B = |4 Ag + 1 2(CN)j + 1 FeC^ + f N^ 

2. Sulphuric Acid, when cold and dilute, does not decompose 
ferrocyanides; on heating to boilmg, however, partial decom- 
position sets in with the liberation of part of the cyanogen as 
hydrocyanic acid : — 

2K^Fe(CN)g + 3HjS04 = 

\ KjFe[Fe(CN),] + 3 KaSO, + f 6 HCN. 
Concentrated sulphuric acid, when heated, completely decom- 
poses ferrocyanides with the evolution of carbon monoxide: — 
K,Fe(CN)e + 6 HaSO^ + 6 Hfi = 

FeSOi + 2 KjSO, -I- 3(NH,),S04 -H f 6 CO. 

3. Ferric Salts, added to a slightly acid solution of a ferro- 
cyanide, yield a precipitate of prussian blue. 

4. The Solotios of lasoluble Fenocyanldes is accomplished by 
boiling the compound with sodium hydroxide and filtering, when 
the metal will be left on the filter in the form of hydroxide, 
while the filtrate will contain the acid radical in the form of 
sodium ferrocyanide: — 

Fe^[Fe(CN),]8 + 12 NaOH - 4 Fe(0H)8 + 3 Na^FeCCN),. 

The residue is dissolved in acid and the metal is tested for in 
the solution obtained. The filtrate is acidified with HCl and 
tested for the ferrocyanogen radical by adding ferric chloride. 



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IS2 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

I£ the metal is one whose hydroxide is soluble in excess of 
sodium hydroxide, as Zu, it may be separated from the ferro- 
cyaaide by passing carbon dioxide into the alkaline solution, 
boiling, and then filtering off the basic carbonate of zinc. la 
the case of lead ferrocyanlde, the lead may be precipitated from 
the alkaline solution by a stream of HjS. 

Fusion with sodium carbonate decomposes f errocyanldes. 

FBRRICYAinDES 

SoinbUltles. All f erricyanides are insoluble in water and in 
cold dilute adds with the exception of those of the alkalies and 
alkaline earths. Heated to redness, ferricyanides decompose, 
the products being iron carbide, cyanide, nitrogen, and cyano- 
gen ; the last bums with a characteristic purplish flame. Sul- 
phuric acid, when dilute and warm, causes partial decomposition 
with the evolution of HCN. When concentrated and hot, it 
effects a complete decomposition with the liberation of CO. 
The equation as given by Treadwell is as follows ; — 

2 KgFe(CN), + 12 HaSO^ + 12 HjO = 

F'^50^\ + 3 KjSO, + 6 (NHi)|S04 + f 12 CO. 

1. Silver Nitrate gives with ferricyanides a reddish brown pre- 
cipitate of silver ferricyanide, insoluble in nitric acid, but solu- 
ble in ammonium hydroxide and in potassium cyanide. 

2. Iron Salts. Ferric salts give no precipitate, but a dark 
coloration; ferrous salts give a blue precipitate of Turnbull's 
blue, Fe8[Fe(CN)(]j, insoluble in acids. 

3. Reducing Agents, such as HgS, SO,, and HI, readily reduce 
ferricyanides to f errocyanides in alkaline solutions : — 

2 KgFe(CN)jj 4- KjS = 2 K,Fe(CN)i, + {S. 

Thiocyanates 
Alkali thiocyanates are readily prepared by heating the cy- 
anide with sulphur : — 

KCN+S=KCNS; 



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e 



TBE ACIDS IS3 

or 1^ heating an alkali cyanide or hydrocyanic acid with ammo- 
nium polysulphide : — 

KCN + (NH^S, = KCNS + (NH4),S^,. 

SoloWUtles. Nearly all the thiocyanates are soluble in water 
with the exception of those of silver, mercury, copper, and gold. 

1. Silver Nitrate precipitates white, curdy silver thiocyaaate, 
insoluble in dilute nitric acid, but soluble with difficulty in 
ammonium hydroxide. 

2. Ferric Salts give with alkali thiocyanate solutions a blood- 
red coloration, due to the formation of ferric thiocyanate. The 
color is destroyed by mercuric chloride. 

Sulphides 

Hydrogen sulphide is a colorless gas having a characteristic 

and unmistakable odor. Its solution in water possesses a feeble 

acid reaction, but it is very unstable, oxidizing readily in contact 

with air with the separation of sulphur ; — 

H,S + 0=.H30 + |S. 

HjS reacts with bases forming hydrosulphides and sulphides, 
which, if HjS is looked upon as a dibasic acid, may be regarded 
as acid and normal sulphides : — 

NaOH + H,S = NaSH + HaO ; 
2 NaOH + HaS = NajS + 2 HgO. 

Behavior on Ignition. Out of contact with the air, most 
sulphides remain unchanged. The sulphides of arsenic and 
mercury when heated sublime unchanged. Tin disulphide and 
iron disulphide give off part of their Sulphur. AH sulphides on 
being heated in contact with air (roasted) are oxidized either to 
oxides or to sulphates. 

Solahillties. The sulphides of the alkalies are soluble in 
water ; those of the alkaline earths, aluminum and chromium, 
are hydrolyzed by water with the formation of hydroxides ; all 
other normal sulphides are insoluble in water. 



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154 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

1. Hydrochloric Add, when moderately strong (1:1), decom- 
poses nearly all sulphides with the evolution of H,S ; the latter 
may be recognized by its odor and by its property of turning 
lead acetate paper black : — 

ZnS + 2 Hd = ZnCI, + f HgS. 

The few sulphides undecomposed by HCl are attacked by a 
mixture of zinc and HCl with the liberation of HjS. 

2. Silver Nitrate precipitates from solutions of sulphides or 
hydrogen sulphide, black silver sulphide (AgjS), insoluble in 
cold but soluble in hot dilute nitric add ; it is insoluble in 
ammonium hydroxide. 

3. Oxidizing Solvents, such as concentrated HNOg, a^tta regia, 
HCl + KClOg, when used to dissolve a sulphide, do not liberate 
hydrogen sulphide, but cause a partial separation of sulphur 
and a partial oxidation of the sulphide to sulphuric acid : — 

HgS+Clj=HgCla+|S; 
S + 3 Cla + 4 HjO = HaSO, + 6 HCl ; 
3 PbS + 8 HNOg (hot and concentrated) = 

|3 PbSO;+ 1 8 NO + 4 HaO. 

4. Sodium Hitroprusaide [Na/NO)Fe(CN)6] imparts to nor- 
mal alkali sulphide solutions a reddish purple color. An aqueous 
solution of HgS does not give this reaction. 

5. Sodium Plumblte (prepared by adding caustic soda solu- 
tion in excess to a lead salt) will detect a sulphide even in the 
presence of free alkali or carbonate, by producing a brown or 
black precipitate. This test is exceedingly sensitive. 

6. For the oxidizing effect of the halogens, nitric acid, potas- 
sium dichromate, potassium permanganate, ferric salts, etc., on 
H^S, see page 61. 

Insoluble Sulphides. Sulphides insoluble in acids, when fused 
in a small nickel crucible with sodium hydroxide, are decom- 
posed with the formation of sodium sulphide. If the mass is 
placed on a silver coin and then moistened, a black stain of 
silver sulphide (AgjS) will be produced. 



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TEE ACIDS 155 

Nitrites 
Solutdlitles. Most nitrites are soluble in water ; silver nitrite, 
however, is only sparingly soluble in water. On ignition, nitrites 
undergo decomposition with the production in general of nitro- 
gen oxides and the oxide of the metaL 

I. Sulphuric Add, when dilute, decomposes all nitrites (dis- 
tinction from nitrates) with the evolution of nitric oxide (NO) : 
the latter immediately oxidizes in contact with the air to brown 
nitrogen peroxide (NOj) * : — 

(i) NaNO,+ HaS04=NaHS044-HNOa; 

(2) 3 HNO, = HNOg -»- f 2 NO + HjO ; 

(3) N0-»-0 = N03. 

Nitrites are also decomposed by acetic add with gentle heat- 
ing ; the NOj given off may be recognized by its turning starch- 
iodide paper blue, 

a. Silver Nitrate precipitates, from solutions of nitrites which 
are not too dilute, white silver nitrite (AgNOj), difficultly soluble 
in cold but more easily soluble in hot water. 

3. Cobalt Salts solutions acidified with acetic acid give, with 
moderately strong solutions of potassium nitrite, a yellow pre- 
cipitate of potassium cobaltic nitrite [K8Co(NOj)s], 

4- Potassitun Iodide, when added to a solution of a nitrite, and 
the mixture is acidified with acetic acid, produces a separation 
of iodine ; the latter may be recognized by turning starch paste 
blue, or by coloring a drop of CSj or CHClg violet 

5. Potassium Permanganate solution, when warmed, is bleached 
by a solution of a nitrite slightly acid with dilute sulphuric 
acid: — 

2KMnO^-|-sHNO,-|-3HaS04 = 

KjSO^ + 2 MnSOi -I- 5 HNOg + 3 H3O. 



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1S6 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

GROUP III 

The acids of this group are not precipitated by either AgNO, 
or BaCi,. 

Acetates 

Solubilities. All normal acetates are readily soluble in water. 
Some basic acetates, such as those of iron.(-ic), aluminum, and 
chromium, are practically insoluble, while the normal silver and 
mercurous salts are only sparingly soluble. On ignition, acetates 
decompose with little or no charring and with the production of 
a combustible gas. 

The alkali acetates, on ignition, are converted into carbonate 
and acetone : — 

2 NaCaHgO, = Na,COg + f (CH,)jCO. 

All other acetates tehave similarly. If the carbonate is un- 
stable at the ignition temperature, the oxide is produced ; if the 
latter is unstable, then the metal alone is left as a residue. 

1. Sulphuric Add, whether dilute or concentrated, liberates 
acetic acid from its salts ; the acid, being volatile, is easily rec- 
ognized by its characteristic odor. 

2. Alcohol and Conceatrated Satpharlc Add. If to a cooled 
mixture of an acetate and concentrated sulphuric acid, a little 
ethyl alcohol is added and then the mixture is gently heated, 
ethyl acetate will be formed ; the latter is easily recognized by 
its fruity odor. If amyl alcohol is used instead of ethyl acohol, 
amyl acetate, having an odor resembling pear essence, will he 
produced : — 

CHj . COO[H -f- HO]C,H, -^ CH, ■ COOCjHs + HaO. 

Acetk Kid. Etbjrl ilcoEid. Etbjrl ncMua. 

The reversible reaction is made to proceed almost entirely 
from left to right by the presence of the concentrated sulphuric 
acid, which removes the water as soon as it is formed. 

3- Silver Nitrate gives with moderately concentrated solutions 
of an acetate or acetic acid a white crystalline precipitate of 
alver acetate (AgCjHgO,), sparingly soluble in cold water (1.04 



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THE ACIDS 1 57 

parts of the salt dissolve in loo parts of water at x? C), more 
readily soluble in hot water, and easily soluble in ammonium 
hydroxide. 

4. Ferric Chloride, when added to an alkali acetate solution, 
produces a reddish brown solution, due to the formation of ferric 
acetate. If this solution is largely diluted and boiled, all of the 
iron will be precipitated as a basic ferric acetate : — 

Fe(CH,0,)|, + H,O:?tFe(0HXC,H,O,)l + HC,H,0,. 
Nitrates 
Sidablllties. The nitrates, with the exception of a few basic 
nitrates, such as BiONOg, are all soluble in water. Barium 
nitrate, however, is only sparingly soluble in water and is almost 
insoluble in moderately strong nitric acid. All nitrates on igni- 
tion undergo decomposition, the alkali and alkahne earth ni- 
trates yielding nitrites with the evolution of oxygen : — 
KNOB = KNO, + fO. 

At higher temperatures, the nitrites are decomposed with the 
production of the oxides of nitrogen and a residue consisting 
of the oxide or peroxide of the metal. The nitrates of the 
heavy metals yield at a red heat nitrogen peroxide and oxygen. 
Heated on charcoal, all normal nitrates deflagrate. 

1. Concentrated Sulphuric Add, when added to a soUd nitrate, 
causes the evolution of nitric acid. If the mixture is heated, 
the nitric acid is decomposed with the production of brown 
fumes of nitrogen peroxide (NOj): — 

(i ) NaNOa + HjSO, = NaHSO* + HNOs ; 
(2) 2 HNOs = fz NO, + HjO + f O. 

2. Ferrous Sulphate, when added to a cool mixture of a nitrate 
solution and concentrated sulphuric acid, produces a deep brown 
color. The reaction may be considered as taking place in three 
stages : rst, the liberation of nitric acid by the action of con- 
centrated sulphuric acid on the nitrate ; 2nd, the reduction of the 
free nitric acid by the ferrous sulphate, resulting in the pro- 
duction of nitric oxide; and, 3rd, the solution of the nitric oxide 



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IS8 QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

in the excess of unoxidized FeSOf with the formatioQ of a 
brown unstable compound : — 

(1) HaSO4+NaN03 = HNOB+NaHS04; 

(2) 2HNO8 + 6FeS04+3H,SO4 = 

3 FcjCSO^), + 4 H^O + 2 no ; 

(3) 2 FeSO, + NO =(FeSOi),NO (brown compound). 

This test, which is exceedingly delicate, is carried out as foU 
lows : To about 3 cc. of the nitrate solution contained in a 
test tube, add an equal volume of concentrated sulphuric acid, 
mix, and thoroughly cool under running water. Hold the tube 
in an inclined position and cautiously add a few cc. of a strong, 
freshly prepared ferrous sulphate solution (free from nitrates), and 
allow the tube to stand. If a nitrate is present, a brown colora- 
tion will be produced in the zone of contact of the two liquids. 

Nitrites give the same reaction, but may be carried out with 
dilute instead qf concentrated sulphuric acid. The colored com- 
pound is destroyed on warming. 

3. lodlgo Solution. If to a little HCI that has been recently 
boiled, a few drops of a solution of indigo in sulphuric acid are 
added, and the mixture is then boiled, the blue coloration will 
persist, if the HCI contains no free chlorine. If to the blue solu- 
tion a nitrate in the form of a solid or in solution is added, and the 
liquid is boiled, the indigo will be bleached. As thie bleaching 
of the indigo is caused by the chlorine which is liberated, any 
other oxidizing agent, which will yield chlorine with HCI Uke 
KClOg, will produce the same result 

4. C<9per Filings, when added to a nitrate, and the mixture is 
heated with concentrated sulphuric acid, cause the production 
of brown nitrogen peroxide fumes : — 

(i) NaNOg-f-HaSO^^NaHSOj-l-HNO,; 

(2) 3Cu-t-8HN0B = 3Cu(N0g),-ff2NO + 4H,O; 

(3) NO + = NOj. 

5. Reductioii to Ammonia. If a solution of a nitrate is made 
strongly alkaline with NaOH, and a few pieces of aluminum or 



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THE ACIDS 159 

nnc and iron filings are added, and the mixture is heated, am- 
monia gas will he evolved. Nitrites give the same reaction. 

6. Free Nitric Add may be recognized even in the presence 
of nitrates by adding to the solution a few quill cuttings and 
evaporating to dryness on the water bath. The quills will be 
found to have a yellow color, due to the formation of xantho- 
proteic acid ; the same compound is formed when concentrated 
nitric acid is brought in contact with the skin. 

Chlorates 
The chlorates are all soluble in water. On prolonged igni- 
tion, they are decomposed, giving off oxygen and leaving a 
residue of the chloride of the metal : — 

KC108 = KCl+t3 0. 
AgC10B = AgCI+f3 0. 

In consequence of the readiness with which they decompose 
with the Uberation of oxygen, chlorates are valuable oxidizing 
agents. When they are mixed with organic matter and heated, 
deflagration results. 

1. Concentrated Snlpharlc Add decomposes chlorates with the 
production of chlorine peroxide (ClOjX * very unstable, green- 
ish yellow gas, which, on being warmed, violently explodes. 
The sulphuric acid acquires at the same time a deep yellow 
color, due to dissolved CIO3 : — 

3 KClOu + 2 H,SOj = KClOj + 2 KHSO4 + H,0 + f 2 ClOj. 

In carrying out the test, it is preferable first to warm a Uttle 
concentrated sulphuric acid in a test tube and then to drop in 
a vety small crystal of KCIOg. One should never look down 
into a test tube, especially when performing this test Equal 
conaderation is due one's neighbor. 

2. Concentrated HCl, when added to a chlorate, is oxidized 
with the production of chlorine and chlorine peroxide : — 

KCIO, + 2 HCl - KCl-H t CH- 1 CIO, -(- H,0. 



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i6o QUAUTATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

3. Aalline Sulphate. If to a solution of a chlorate in con- 
centrated sulphuric acid a drop of aniline sulphate solution is 
added, a deep blue coloration will be developed ; the color may 
he intensified by the addition of a few drops of water. This 
reaction is exceedingly delicate and may be used to distinguish 
a chlorate from a nitrate. 

4. Reducing Agents, as sulphurous acid or the alkali sulphites 
in acid solutions, change the chlorates to chlorides : — 

HCIO, + 3 HjSOj =. 3 HjSO. + HCL 



ACID ANALYSIS 

Preliminaty Examination 

Before proceeding with the analysis for the acids, the student 
should first complete his examination for metals, the results of 
which will, by a proper use of the table of solubilities, restrict 
the number of acids to be looked for. An example will make 
this clear. If the substance under examination is soluble in 
water and lead has been found, none of the acids which form 
insoluble salts with lead need be looked for, viz., carbonic, 
sulphuric, hydrogen sulphide, chromic, oxalic, etc. Again, 
if the original substance is insoluble in water, but soluble in 
hydrochloric acid, and barium has been found, one need not 
look for sulphuric acid. Further, if silver has been detected 
in the metallic analysis of a substance soluble in water, it is 
evident that all the acids of Group II. need not be looked for. 
It is also well to remember that certain acids cannot coexist 
in solution, e.^., oxiding agents Uke KaCr,0„ HgAsOj, FeCl, 
cannot exist with reducing agents like sulphites and iodides. 
It is also desirable that the first three of the following prelimi- 
nary tests be carried out before commencing the systematic 
search for acids. 



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PREUMINARY TESTING OF SOUDS 
I. Heat a small quantity of the substance in a tube closed at 
one end. 



0»^*t™. 


IKP.C*™« 


DwmplUtion. 


Naa, Pb(NO,)„ KjSO„ riuc blende. 




and other substances. 




Oiganic matter, tartrates, and other 


odor and fbnuatioii of water. 


organic acids and salts. 


Water glTni oS. 


Water niecfianically inclosed, water 


OuMftnnot:— 


of hydration, and hydroxide. 




O— IdndleiaGpark; 


Chlorates, peroxides, certain ozidea, 


Coloriesa 




nitrates, etc. 


and 


CO— bums with blue 


Oxalates. 


odorless. 


flame; 












tarbid. 


matter. 




NH,— turns red Utmus 






blue; 


containing N. 










odor; 


t^n sulphates. 


Colorless 


(CN)» — rect^niicd 


Cyanides. 


with 


by odor,* and bums 




odor. 


with reddish flame; 






MiS — reo^nized by 


Mobt sulphide*. 




odor; 






Acetone — recc^iied 


Acetates. 




by odor. 






NO»— reddish brown ; 


Nitrates of heavy metals. 


Colored 


turns starch-KI 




gases. 


paper blue. 






a, Br, I — recognized 


Chlorides, bromides, and Iodides In 




by color and odor. 


the presence of oxidizing agents. 






White. 


NH, salts, HgCl, HgCI,, As,0., Sb,0» 




and certain organic compounds. 


Yellow. 


AsiS„ HgO (accompanied by globules 






ofHg). 



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QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



o^.™, 


IWHCJinilH 


Yellow, becoming red when 


Hglr 


rubbed. 




Reddish brown drops, yellow 


s. 


when cold. 




Black accompanied by garlic odor. 


As. 




I. 


vapor. 




Metallic globules or mirror. 


Hg. 


Substance chugM coto : — 




Becomes black. 


SaltsofCu,Ni,Co,Hii. 




Salts of Fe. 


Black (hot) and red (cold) ac- 


Hg salts. 


companied by metallic globules. 




Dark red (hot), yellow (cold). 


PbCrOr 


Yellow (hot), white (cold). 


ZnO. 



2. Put a small quantity of the substance in a test tube, add a 
little dilute HCl, and heat gently. 



OnuVATIOH 


,™„™. 


co„ 


effervescence, turns lime water tuibid. 


Carbonates. 


so, 


recognized by odor. 


Sulphites. 


so, 




Thiosulphates. 


H,S 


. recognized by odor and by lead acetate paper. 


Sulphides. 


NO, 


: brown, turns starch-KI paper blue. 


Nitrites. 


HCN : recognised by odor." 


Cyanides. 



3. Heat a small portion in a test tube with concentrated 
sulphuric acid. 



OSWBVATIOM 



Add fumes are evolved which redden 

Br, 1, mixed with HBr, SO^ and per- 
haps HjS. 



Halogen acids from their salts. 
Iodides and bromides. 



* Smell caDtioutl; by bnning vapor witb SmA towards m 



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THE ACIDS 



163 





ImiCATlOK 


Chlorioe — bleaching litmus. 


Chloride and oxidizing agent together. 


CrOjClj — (reddish brown) . 


Chromate and chloride together. 


aO, — yeUow color of gas and 


Chlorate. 


HjSO, ; gas explosive. 




HF —etches glass ; yields SiF„ which 


Huoride. 


turns •' water bead " turbid. 




HCjHjOj — recognized by odor. 


Acetate. 


NOj — recognized by odor and by 


Nitrates, nitrites. 


turning starch-KI paper blue. 




SOj— recognized by odor. 


Sulphite, thiosulphate, or rcdudng 




agent aclmg on H,SO,. 


SOj — accompanied by blackening. 


Organic matter or tartrate. 


CO — (without blackening) recog- 


Oxalate, cyanides, ferro- and feni- 


nized by burning with blue fiame. 


cyanides. 


COj — turns lime water turbid. 


Carbonates and oxalates. 



4. Heat alone on charcoal with blowpipe. 


o„..™ 


iMDICATIOH 


(u) Substance fuses and runs into charcoal. 


Salts of Na, K, and Li. 


{6) Substance decrepitates. 




{c) Substance deflagrates. 


Chlorates, nitrates. 


(jd) Substance is infusible; residue mois- 




tened with water reacts alkaline. 


Ba, Sr, Ca, Mg. 


Residue moistened with two drops 




of very dilute Co(NOs), solution 




and heated again gives a 




blue mass. 


Al. 


green mass, 


Zn- 


pink mass. 


Mg. 






accompanied by garlic odor. 


As. 


YeUow (hot), white (cold). 


Zn. 


YeUowish brown (hot), white (cold). 




near residue, and not volatile. 


Sn. 


Reddish yellow (hot), yellow (cold). 


Pb. 


Orange (hot), light yellow (cold). 


Bi. 


Reddish brown, cold ^d hot. 


Cd. 



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i64 



QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



5. Mix with anhydrous sodium carbonate and heat on char- 
coal. 



o»„.™. 


I-^™- 


(«) Metallic globule forais without incrustation : — 




yellow. 


Au. 


red, 


Cu. 




Ag. 








Pb, Sn. 


brittle. 


Sb, Bi. 


(e) Dark and brittle magnetic mass. 


Fe, Co, Ni. 



6. Make borax bead test; introduce first in oxidizing and 
then in reducing flame. 



0.™«F^ 


R^a^F^ 


ImiciTOw 


Blue. 


blue. 


Co. 


Greenish blue. 


red — opaqne. 


Cu. 


Green. 


green. 


Cr. 


Yellow. 


green. 


Fe. 


Brown. 


gray — opaque. 


Mi. 


Violet. 


colorless. 


Mn. 



7. Moisten substance with concentrated HCl,take up a small 
portion on the loop of a platinum wire, and bold in the flame.* 



OMmvAllOH 

Intense yellow which perusts £3r sereral seconds. 

Deep red. 

Reddish yellow. 

Green or greenish yellow. 

Pale blue. 



Ba, Cu, (K H|BO,. 



* Certain snbitaacct, like the solphstet of the slkaline esithi, are not ToladUied 
in the flame; in >nch caies, it is well to hold them Grtt in the ledudng Same, then 
noiiten with HO, and introduce into the colorlea homcn Same. 



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TBE ACIDS z6$ 

Method of Add Analyiis 

The method employed for the detection of the acids is differ- 
ent from that used in the systematic examination for metallic radi- 
cals. We cannot, as was done with the metals, divide the adds 
into groups by certain reagents and then separate the various 
group precipitates into their componetit acids. For the most 
part, the procedure consists in independently and separately 
testing for each of them. From the list of adds this would 
seem a long and tiresome task, but in actual practice the num- 
ber of acids which must be looked for is very much reduced ; 
first, from a knowledge of the solubilities and metalhc content 
of the substance ; and, second, by the results furnished by the 
preliminary experiments just given. The reagents BaClj and 
AgNOj, when properly applied, are valuable in that they give 
indications of the presence or absence of whole groups ; e.g., if to 
a moderately concentrated and neutral solution of the substance, 
BaClg or CaClg is added and no predpitate results, the absence of 
all the members of Group I. may be inferred.* However, these 
reagents cannot be used to separate the acids in the manner in 
which group reagents are employed to precipitate metaUic groups. 

OBHXRAL EXAMHTATIOV FOR ACIDS 

Preliminary treatment of the sample with dilute HCI will dis- 
close the presence or absence of the following acids : HjCOg, 
HaSO^ HjSaO^ HjS, HCN, and HNO,. In the course of the 
analysis for metals, HgAsOg, HjAsOj, and HjCr04 will be de- 
tected. For the examination for acids, it is desirable in most 
cases to have a solution which shall contain the acids in the 
form of sodium salts. Such a solution, known as the " prepared 
solution," may be obtained by boiling the finely powdered sub- 
stance with an excess of Na^COg solution, with constant stirring, 
for several minutes (i). If ammonia is given off, boil with the 
addition of more Na^COg until no more of this gas is evolved, 
and then filter. 

* The Mlntion ihodd alto conI«in no conaidenible qiumtity of NH* utts, elM 
boratei, flooride*, and tutntc* may not precipitate. 



,, Google 



QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



Residtie will coo- 
tais the hjdroxides, 
carbonates, and basic 
carbonates of the 
metals (except the 
alkalies, As and Sb); 
it may also contaio 
phosphates, flixnides, 
and silicates. Re- 
serve this residue, 
and if these adds are 
tu^ found in the fil- 
trate, divide it into 
two parts. 

1st part. Test for 
HJ-O. and SiO,. 

AddifywithHNO,, 
evaporate to dry- 
ness, extract with 
hot dU. HNO,, and 
filter. Test residue 
with NaPO, bead or 
with HF in a plati- 
num Ctudble. Test 
filtrate for PO4 with 
(NH4),MoO,. 

zndpart. Test for 



Filtrate (prepared solution) will contain the acids in 
form of sodium salts -1- an excess of NaiCOi and is to 
be used for the acid tests unless otherwise directed. 

FrelimliuuT Tests for the Acid Gionpa 
/ttil addify a small portion of the prepared solution 
by the careful addition of dil. MNOi; filter if necessary 
(3) and boil the filtrate until all of the COi is espelied. 
Render &intly alkaline with ammonia, and boil oiF any 
excess of the latter that may have been added ; filter 
again if necessary. Divide this solution into 2 parts. 

1st part. Test for Group I. by adding a little BaQj 
and CaCli solutions (3). A white precipitate shows the 
presence of the Group I. (4) ; addiiy with HQ. If 
the ppt does not dissolve, HtSO» b present. If ths 
group is present, test separate portions of the prepared 
solutions for HjPO„ H,BO„ HF, H,C,0„ H AHiO,, 
HiSiO,. 

2nd part. Test for Group II. Render thesolutioa 
add with HNO, and add an excess of silver nitrate. 
A ppt. proves the presence of Group II. Note tlie 
color of the ppt. (5) and filter. 



Kesidae. Wash several 
times on filter with water. 
Transfer ppL to a test 
tube and shake vigorously 
with an excess of dilute 
NHiOH. If complete 
solution takes place, the 
absence of HI and 
H(Fe(CN)4 is shown. 
HBr and HCNS may also 
possibly be absent. If 
Group II. is shown to 
be present, test separate 
portions of the prepared 
solutions for HI, HBr, 
Ha, HCN, H,Fe(CN)s, 
H,Fe(CN)^ and HCNS. 

Group HI. Test separate portions for HGO,, HNO« 
and HC,H|0,. 



To filtrate or solution in 
which AgNOi produces no 
ppt. in HNOj solution, 
add more AgNO, to insure 
complete precipitation ; fil- 
ter if necessary, and to the 
filtrate contained in a test 
tube carefully add 3 to ; 
drops of ammonia. Agi- 
tate the upper portion of 
the liquid and note the 
color of any ppt. which 
may form at the neutral 
zone (6). 



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THE ACIDS 167 

ITOTBS 

1. If the substance is soluble in water and contains no heavy metala, the 
treatment with Na,CO, may be dispensed with. If add (preferably nitric 
add) tus been used in getting the substance into solution, and the latter is 
boiled, HjCO,, HjSO, H,S,0„ HjS, HCN, and HC,H,Oj will be driven off 
or decomposed, and therefore should not be looked for ; the presence of all of 
these acids will have been revealed, however, in the preliminary examination. 
Substances insoluble in water but soluble in acids, when boiled with NajCO, 
solution, may leave a residue consisting of the phosphates and fluorides of 
certain metals which are not readily transposed by boiling with Na^CO,. 
Substances insoluble in acids should be fiised in a platinum crucible if no 
reducible metals are present, otherwise in either a nickel or a porcelain cru- 
cible with Na,CO, ; the melt is then extracted with boiling water and the 
solution is liltered. The filtrate will correspond to the "prepared solution " 
and should be used for the acid tests. The residue is tested for phosphates 
and fluorides. In certain cases where As and Sb are known to be present, it 
may be necessary to remove these metals by passing HjS into the acidified 
solution, filtering, and boiling out the HjS from the filtrate. The latter may 
then be treated with Na^COj in the manner already described. In the absence 
of nitrates and chlorates and in the presence of only metals which are pre- 
cipitated by HjS, a solution for the add tests may be prepared by saturating 
with H^ a suspension of about i g. of the substance in about 50 cc. of water. 
Heat to boiling and filter. The filtrate after boiling to expel the H5S is used 
in small portions for the acid tests. Nitrates and chlorates, if present, would 
oxidize the HgS, forming HjSO,; while chlorates would be reduced to chlo' 
rides, thus making the tests for these adds of no value. 

2. Boiling with NajCO, will leave all of the metals in the residue, with the 
eiception of the alkalies, As, Sb, and small amounts of metals slightly soluble 
in excess of NagCO,. On acidifying this solution, a predpitate may be 
obtained. It should be filtered off, rejected, and the filtrate again boiled to 
drive out any H^S that may be liberated before neutralizing the solution with 
ammonium hydroxide. All the CO^ must be expelled after addifying, other- 
wise BaCO, and A^^^Og will predpitate when the group reagents are added. 
Too much HNOg should be avoided, as this will form with the ammonia next 
to be added an unnecessarily la^e amount of NH4NO,, in which the Ca or 
Ba salts of nearly all the adds of Group I., especially the borate, fluoride, and 
tartrate, are soluble. 

3. CaClg b also added because the fluoride, tartrate, and oxalate of catduro 
are much more insoluble than the corresponding salts of Ba. 

4. If no predpitate is obtained, the absence of all the adds of Group 1. is 
proved with the exception of boric acid, which is predpitated only from rather 
concentrated solutions It should, however, be remembered that the presence 



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i68 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

of much ammonium salts interferes more or less with the predpitation of aO 
the adds of this group with the exception of H^O^ and H^CgOf 

5. If only a doudiness is obtained with AgNO^ it indicates a trace of 
dilorides which should not be reported. Ag,C,0, is difficuldy soluble in 
HNO,; an excess of this add should be added before adding the AgNO, to 
prevent its predpitation. The color of the silver precipitate, together with its 
solubility in ammonium hydroxide, affords important indications of the add 
present; Agl is yellow; Ag^, black; Ag,Fe(CN)g, reddish brown; AgCl, 
AgCN, AgSCN, and AgjFe(CN)g are white; and AgBr is yellowish white. 
Of these, only the sulphide, iodide, and ferrocyauide are insolubie in ammo- 
nium hydroxide ; the bromide and thiocyanate are difficultly soluble in this 
reagent. 

6. Silver njtmte also predpitates from neutral solutions all the adds of 
Group I. with the exception of HF and HjSO, ; the latter is, however, diffi- 
cultly soluble in water. The color of the predpitate forming at the neutral 
junction of the two liquids will often indicate which of the acids of Group I. 
are present; if yellow, it may be AgiPO, or Ag,AsOj; if brownish red, 
A^AsO,; if pur[^ish red, Ag,Cr04; if white, the oxalate, silicate, or borate. 



SPECIAL TESTS FOR TEE ACIDS 

The metallic analysis and preliminary tests completed, the 
student should, with the aid of the table of solubilities, thought- 
fully prepare a list of acids which are likely to be present and 
hence to be looked for. No acid should be excluded which is 
compatible with the solubility and metallic content of the sub- 
stance. Minerals, as a rule, need not be tested for organic and 
cyanogeu acids, and, if insoluble, for nitrates, chlorates, bro- 
mides, and iodides. Alloys contain no acids as such ; they may, 
however, contain acid-forming elements such as S, P, and Si, ■ 
which, by treatment with suitable oxidizing agents, will yield 
the corresponding acids. 

Carbonates 

Treat a small portion of the finely ground substance in a 
test tube with dilute HCl and warm. A carbonate, if present, 
will evolve CO^ which may be recognized by its property of 
rendering turbid a drop of limewater supported in a glass 
tube. 



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TBE ACIDS i6g 



1. Sulphites, if present, would evolve SOj, which would also render lime- 
water turbid. Sulphides and nitrites also liberate gases on treatment with 
dilute HCI. To avoid the interference of these substances, use a strong 
solution of KiCr^O^ instead of add, and waim the mixture. CO, alone will 
be evolved. K^Cr^Of oxidites sulphides and sulphites, and is without action 
on nitrites. The same end may be attained by treatment with acid and then 
passing the evolved mixed gases through bromine water. 

2. Certain carbonates are not readily decomposed by cold dilute add, e.g:, 
magnesite, dolomite, and the carbonates of the heavy metals. They are all 
decomposed, however, on warming the acid. 

3. In making the test, care must be exercised to prevent any acid, which 
may be mechanically carried up the tube in the form of spray, from coming in 
contact with the drop of limewater. 

4. The drop of limewater should be examined skortiy after exposure to 
insure the non-formation of soluble caldum dicarbonate. 

5. Where the amount of CO, liberated b small, it b necessary to heat the 
add to drive out the COi, which otherwise would remain wholly in solution 
and thus escape detection. 

Sulphites 

Treat a small quantity of the solid substance with dilute HCL 
In the presence of a sulphite, SOj will be evolved; this gas 
may be readily recognized by its odor and by its property of 
bleaching a very dilute solution of KMn04 (see reaction 6 
under Sulphites). 

Thiosulphates 

These are detected in the preliminary tests with dilute HCL 
In the presence of a thiosulphate, SO, is evolved, accompanied 
by a separation of S. 

StJLPHATES 

Sulphates will have been indicated in the preliminary testing 
for the groups of acids. To a small portion of the " prepared 
solution," add dilute HCI to acid reaction, boil to expel COa, 
filter if necessary, and to the filtrate add BaClj. A white 
precipitate indicates the presence of sulphates or fluosilicates. 
To confirm the presence of sulphates, dry the precipitate, mix 
it with a little anhydrous Na^COg, and heat on charcoal before 



.yGOOgli^ 



I70 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

the blovpipe. Remove the residue from the charcoal, place it 
on a bright silver coin, and add a drop of water. A black stain 
confirms the presence of a sulphate. 

Fluosilicates 

Acidify a small portion of the prepared solution with dilute 
HCl, boil out the COa, filter if necessary, and to the clear fil- 
trate add BaCI, to complete precipitation. Allow to stand for 
several minutes and filter. Wash and completely dry the pre- 
cipitate at a low temperature. Transfer the precipitate to a 
test tube, add concentrated HSSO4, heat, and hold in the escap- 
ing gases a drop of water held on the loop of a platinum wire. 
In the presence of a fluosilicate, the drop of water will become 
turbid owing to the formation of H^SiOj. (See footnote, page 
124.) 

Chsohates 

(a) Solutions of a dichromate or a chromate possess an 
orange or yellow color which is very characteristic. Acidifica- 
tion with dilute HCl, followed by treatment with H3S, will cause 
a change in color to green, accompanied by a separation of S ; 
hence this acid wDl be detected in the precipitation of the second 
group of metals. The presence of a chromate may be detected 
by acidifying the prepared solution with HNOj, thoroughly 
cooling, and then adding i cc. of ether and i cc, of 3 % H3O3 
and shaking. A blue color in the ether layer proves the pres- 
ence of a chromate. Reaction 6, page 143. 

{b) The change in color, which is an evidence of reduction, 
may be brought about by a variety of reducing agents in the 
presence of free acid, e.g., strong HCl and a little alcohol (see 
reaction 5 under Ckromates), KI, and Na^SOg ; the last is oxi- 
dized at the same time to sulphate. If the prepared solution is 
colorless, chromates cannot be present. 

(c) Predpitatiott Test. In the absence of sulphates, phos- 
phates, oxalates, and tartrates, acidify the " prepared solution " 
with acetic acid, boil to expel COj, filter if necessary, and to the 
clear solution add i g. of NaCaHgOa and a little PKCaHjOa)^ 



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TBE ACIDS 171 

solution. A yellow precipitate of PbCrOj proves the presence 
of a chromate. 

If the above-mentioned acids are present, acidify the prepared 
solution with HNOg, boil to expel COj, filter if necessary, and 
render the resulting filtrate just alkaline with ammonium hy- 
droxide ; add CaClj, warm, shake vigorously, and allow to stand 
half an hour and filter. The precipitate may consist of the 
tartrate, oxalate, and phosphate of calcium. The filtrate may 
contain sulphates besides the chromate. To remove the former, 
acidify with HNOj, heat to boiling, add a slight excess of BaClg, 
and filter off the BaSO^ on two folds of filter paper. To the 
filtrate add several grams of NaCaHgOj to completely replace 
the nitric acid by acetic acid, and heat, when a yellow precipi- 
tate o£ BaCrO| will be formed. 

Arsenites 

Arsenites are detected in the analysis for metals. In HCl so- 
lutions, HjS yields an immediate precipitate of AsjSg. Arsen- 
ites are not precipitated by either magnesia mixture or ammonium 
molybdate. In a strictly neutral solution, AgNOj produces ^ 
yellow precipitate of Ag,AsOg (phosphates respond to the s«me 
test). 

Arsenates 

From acid -solutions, H^S slowly yit\As a yellow precipitate. 
From strictly neutral solutions, AgNO, precipitates reddish 
brown AggAsO^. PreaiMtates are obtained with both magnesia 
mixture and ammonium molybdate. The last two tests apply 
only in the absence of phosphates. For distinctions between 
phosphates and arsenates, see reactions 4 and 5 under Phos- 
phates. If arsenic is found in the metallic analysis, it is usually 
present as arsenite or arsenate. In the absence of oxidizing 
agents, as chromic and nitrous acids, arsenates are further 
distinguished from arsenites, even in the presence of phos- 
phates, by the ability of arsenates to liberate iodine from 
KI in a solutioD acid with HCL For the detection of Iodine, 
see p. 147. 



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173 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Phosphates 

Phosphates will have been detected in a complete analysis be- 
fore precipitating the third group of metals. 

(a) In the absence of arsenates, a small portion of the pre- 
pared solution is strongly acidified with concentrated HNOg, ' 
then it is evaporated nearly to diyness, diluted with water, 
treated with lO cc. of ammonium molybdate soludon, and 
warmed ; in the presence of a phosphate, a yellow precipitate 
of (NH4)jP04 • 12 MoOg wiU be formed. 

{b) Or the prepared solution is acidified with HCl, boiled to 
expel CO^ filtered if necessary, made alkaline with ammonium 
hydroxide, filtered again if a precipitate forms, and the clear, 
cooled filtrate is treated with magnesia mixture and thoroughly 
shaken. A white crystalline precipitate of NH^MgPO^ forms 
in the presence of a phosphate. 



1. The solution is evaporated with concentrated HNO, to oxidize any 
reducing agent that may be present and which would interfere with the 
(NH,)jMo04 test ; it also converts at the same time any meta- or pyrophos- 
phate to the ortho form, which alone is precipitated by (NHj)^oO^. 

2. If arsenic has been found, it should be removed by rendering the pre- 
pared solution stroo^y acid with HCl, heating to boiling, and passing in a 
stream of H,S for 30 minutes ; then filter, boil out the HjS from the iiltrate, 
add HNOp and evaporate neariy to dryness; extract the residue with boiling 
dilute HNO, and add to the somewhat cooled solution an excess of am- 
monium molybdate. A yellow precipitate shows the presence of PO,. The 
solution to be tested for PO, should not be above 70° C., as there is danger 
of decomposing the reagent, with the resulting precipitation of white MoO,. 

Oxalates 

Oxalates should be detected before proceeding with the pre- 
cipitation of Group III. 

Slightly acidify some of the prepared solution with acetic acid, 
boil out the COj, and filter if necessary ; warm the filtrate and 
add an equal volume of a saturated CaSO^ solution. A white 
crystalline precipitate indicates the presence of an oxalate. 



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TBE ACIDS 173 

Confirm by filtering ofiF the precipitate, washing it with water, 
dissolving it in hot dilute HgSO^, and adding a drop of dilute 
KMnOf solution. In the presence of an oxalate, the KMnOj 
will be bleached. (See reaction 4 under Oxalates.) 

nOTES 

The solution is rendered add with acetic add to prevent the predpitation 
of carbonates and phosphates. CaF, may be predpitated, but may usually be 
distinguiahed from CaC,0^ by the &ct that the former is gelatinous while tlie 
latter is crystalliae. It is, however, better to make the confinnatoiy test 

Fluorides 

I. The etching test (see page 133) is not applicable in the 
presence of silicates or silica. 

3. The test depending upon the formation at SiF^ and the 
detection of the latter by its property of rendering a water 
"bead," held on the loop of a platinum wire, turbid (see 
page 132), is applicable to fluorides in the presence of SiOg or 
silicates. To insure a positive test, a little sand .or dry sodium 
silicate should be added. 

3. Silicates which are not decomposed by concentrated HgSOf 
may be tested for fluorides by fusing with 6 to 8 times their 
weight of a mixture of equal parts of sodium carbonate and po- 
tassium carbonate, extracting the melt with water, and filtering. 
The filtrate' will contain all of the F as NaF, as well as the silica 
in the form of NajSiOg. Acidify with acetic acid and filter 
off any precipitate which forms. To the filtrate, add CaClg and 
allow the mixture to stand for some time. Collect the precipi- 
tate on a filter, dry, and apply the tests for a fluorida 

Borates 
I. Tnrmeric Pa^er Test Dip a piece of turmeric paper into 
a small portion of the original or prepared solution acidified 
with HCl and dry it; this may be conveniently accomplished 
by placing it on the outside of a test tube containing water 
which has just been heated to boiling. In the presence of a 



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174 QVAUTATIVE CBEUJCAL ANALYSIS 

borate, the turmeric paper assumes a permanent reddish brown 
color, which, on treatment with a drop of caustic alkali, i& 
changed to a greenish black color. 

2. The Flame Test (see reactions 6 and 7 under BoraUs) 
may be conducted on a portion of the original substance, pro- 
vided Ba and Cu are both absent If these metals are present, 
the test may be applied by first removing the Cu with HjS and 
then the Ba with sulphuric acid. If the test is carried out in a 
test tube provided with a stopper, through which passes a glass 
tube drawn out near the end, and the mixture is heated, only 
the vapors of boron ester will escape. If the issuing gas is 
lighted, it will burn with a green flame. The advantage of this 
form of apparatus is that, as neither Ba nor Cu form volatile 
compounds under these conditions, they do not interfere. 

BOTES tm TEE TDimBIC TEST 

Oxidizing agents like chlorates, chrotnates, and iodides interfere with this 

test by destroying the turmeric. HNO, is an exception. Chlorates and 

chromates may both be reduced by treating the original substance contained 
in an evaporating dish with solid Na^SOj, adding dilute HG, and warming 
after the reaction has proceeded for some time, to drive out the excess of SOj. 
Filter, if necessary, and boil the filtrate with a slight excess of NajCO, ; dilute, 
and filter. Iodides, if present, may be removed by precipitation with AgNOj 
after rendering the solution acid with HNOj. FeCl„ if present, will color the 
turmeric paper brown on concentration, but will give a brown instead of a 
greenish black color when the dried paper is treated with caustic soda. It is 
evident that if the prepared solution is used, Fe cannot be present. 

Silicates 

1. The NaPOgbead test may be applied to the original sub- 
stance. 

2. Evolution of SIF4. In a platinum crucible, treat a mixture 
of equal parts of the dry substance and CaFj (free from SiO,) 
with a little concentrated HjSOj, and heat under a hood. A 
drop of water, held on the loop of a platinum wire, when 
brought near the mouth of the crucible, will be rendered turbid 
by the escaping SiFj. About 2 cc. of aque<His HF may be 
used instead of the CaFj. 



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THE ACIDS 



Tartrates 



The presence of tartrates will be indicated when the substance 
under examination is heated in a closed tube, as well as by the 
characteristic behavior when heated with concentrated HjSO^ 
(see reaction i under Tartrates). 

1. Concentrate the prepared solution to about 0.5 cc, just 
acidify with acetic acid, and add 2 cc. of KCjHjOj ; shake vigor- 
ously and allow the mixture to stand. A white crystalline pre- 
cipitate may be KHC4H,0a. Confirm by dissolving in a few 
drops of dilute KOH solution, and precipitate the tartrate with 
a little AgNOjj dissolve the precipitate in a slight excess of 
ammonium hydroxide and carry out the silver mirror test as 
described in reaction 2 under Tartrates, 

2. If no heavy metals are present and the substance is soluble 
in water, the silver mirror test may at once be applied. 

3. If heavy metals are present, dissolve the original substance 
in water or in the least possible amount of dilute HCl, Remove 
the metals of Groups I. and II., if present, by means of H^S; 
and those of Group III. with NH^OH and (NH^^S (Al and 
Cr will, of course, not be precipitated). The clear filtrate is 
acidified with HCl, boiled to expel HjS, and is finally rendered 
alkaline with NH4OH. An excess of CaClj is then added and 
the mixture is shaken vigorously, allowed to stand for a short 
time, and finally filtered. The precipitate, which may consist 
of CaC^H^Oa, CaCaO^, and Ca/PO.V is treated with a cold, 
strong NaOH solution to dissolve out the CaCjH^Og, then it is 
stirred thoroughly, diluted, and filtered. If a precipitate forms 
on heating the clear filtrate to boiling, a tartrate is indicated. 
Confirm by filtering while hot, wash the precipitate, and transfer 
it to a test tube. Add i drop of NH^OH and a little AgNOs, 
and warm. In the presence of a tartrate, a black precipitate or 
a silver mirror will be formed. 



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176 QUAUTATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 



Iodides 

I. Iodides, if present, will be detected in the preliminaiy ex- 
amination of the substance with concentrated H,SO^. 

3. To a portion of the original or prepared solution acidified 
with HCl, add a little potasBium nitrite solution or chlorine 
water and then about i cc. of CS, or CHCls, and shake vigor- 
ously. An iodide, if present, will color the CSj or CHCls violet. 

3. AgNO, in HNO3 solution precipitates yellow Agl, prac- 
tically insoluble in NH^H. 

nOTBS 

Nitrous add — (.«., a nitrite in add solution — is preferable to dilorine as 
an iodine liberator for the reason that an excess of the former does not hinder 
the reaction (see reaction 4 under fodides). The liberated iodine may also 
be recc^imzed by the blue compound it forms with starch paste. Insoluble 
iodidea are tested for the halogen by one of the methods given under " iHiolu- 
bU Substances," page 195. 

Brouiijes 

1. Bromides, if present, will be detected in the preliminary 
examination of the substance with concentrated HgSO^. 

2. To a portion of the original or prepared solution, add with 
HCl, add I cc. of CS, or CHClg. Cautiously treat with small 
amounts of CI water and shake vigorously after each addition. 
In the presence of bromides, the CHClg or the CSg will acquire 
a reddish or yellow color, depending upon the amount of bro- 
mide present (see reaction 2 under Bromides). 



Iodides, if present, intofeie with the test by imparting a violet color to the 
CHCI, or CSr If the amount of iodide present is large, chlorine wato* should 
be added until an intense violet color is produced in the CHCI, or CS,; the 
liquid is then carefully decanted or the aqueous portion is removed to another 
test tube by means of a pipette, and there treated with fresh portions of CS^. 
and CI water. If the CS, is still colored a deep violet, the operation is re- 
pealed until only a ^nt pink color is imparted to the CS,; now, on adding a 
little more CI water and shaking, a brown or reddish color will be produced If 



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TEE ACIDS 177 

a bromide is preaent. If the amount of iodide in the original solution is 
small, as is shown by the bint purple color of the CS^ more chlorine water 
should be added, without decanting the liquid, and the mixture should be 
shaken after each small addition ; in the presence of a bromide, a character- 
btic brown color will fimdly be observed in the CS, layer. Chlorine water 
exercises a selective action, liberating practically all the iodine first ; an excess 
will oxidize the latter to colorless iodic add; and on further addition of 
chlorine water, bromine will be liberated. Insoluble bromides are treated as 
directed wiAa " /moluMe Substances,^ p3ge 195- 

Thiocyanates, cyanides and ferrocyanides interfere with the detection of 
bromides by the chlorine water test for the reason that these adds are readily 
oxidized by the reagent added to liberate the Br. This difficulty may be 
overcome by the method devised by Curtman and Wickoff which is based on 
the fa.Qt that in a solution slighdy add with H,SO,, cuprous sulphate (pre- 
pared by adding H^O, to CuSO,) predpitales cyanides, ferrocyanides, and 
thiocyanates (also iodides), leaving in solution bromides and chlorides. 

Method. The solution to be tested, which should be neutral or slightiy acid 
with H^0„ is treated with 1 5 cc. saturated solution of SO,. Heat to boiling 
and while hot add slowly 2 N — CuSO, until an excess is added- The solu- 
tion should be blue ; a green color shows insuffident CuSO,. Filter while hot 
and wash the ppt. twice with hot water, adding the washings to the filtrate. 
Boil down the filtrate to 5-10 cc. to concentrate the solution and to expd the 
excess SO,. (A slight white ppt. which may separate should be discarded.) 
Transfer solution to a test tube and cool. Now add t cc. 3 M - H,SO, and i 
cc. I fa KMnO, and shate. Add 0.5 cc- CS, and shake again. A yellow 
color in the CS, layer proves the presence of Br. The add and KMnO, are 
added and shaken first in order that the CS) may not be in contact with the 
KMnO, longer than is necessary, since they react with the formation of a littie 
MnOj which with vigorous shaking may dissolve in the CS^ yielding a color 
indistinguishable fi^m that given by small amounts of Br. 



Chlorides 

In the abseoce of bromides, iodides, cyanides, ferrocyanides, 
and thiocyanates, a white precipitate, obtained with AgNOg 
in a solution acid with HNO^ is proof of the presence of 
chlorides. 

Chlorides In the presence of iodides and absence of bromides, 
cyanides, and ferrlcyanldea are tested as follows : To the HNO, 
solution, add AgNOg to complete precipitation, filter, and wash; 
digest the precipitate for several minutes with cold ammonium 
hydroxide and filter ; finally acidify the filtrate with HNOg, when 



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e 



178 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

the formation of a white curdy precipitate shows the presence 
of a chloride. 

Chlorides In tlie preseace of Bromides and Iodides may be 
detected by one of three following methods : — 

1. The Cliromyl Chloride Method. In a small, dry distilling 
Sask, place a mixture of some of the powdered original sub- 
stance, or the residue obtained by the evaporation to dryness 
of a portion of the prepared solution, and powdered KjCraO, ; 
add s cc. of concentrated HaSOj, and heat. Absorb any fumes 
that may be evolved in dilute NH^OH. The latter will be 
colored yellow if a chloride was originally present (see reaction 
4 under Chlorides). 

2. Hart's Method. Principle: HI is oxidized by a ferric salt 
and the I set free is boiled off; HBr is then oxidized with 
KMn04 and the liberated Br is removed by boiling ; any resid- 
ual substance which will give with AgNOj a white precipitate 
insoluble in HNO3 and soluble in ammonium hydroxide, must 
be a chloride. The method is not reliable for the detection of 
very small amounts of chlorides in the presence of relatively 
large amounts of the others. 

Method. The solution coDtained in an evaporating dish is rendered 

sliglitly acid with dilute HjSOf, then treated with 3, concentrated solution of 
ferric alum, and the mixture boiled until no more iodine is given off. This 
point may be determined by holding in the escaping vapors a piece of paper 
moistened with starch paste, which, in the presence of iodine, will be colored 
blue. When the expulsion of the iodine is complete, KMnO, solution is 
added in a quantity sufficient to give the solution a purple color which does 
not disappear on boiling. The KMn04 oxidizes the HBr, setting bromine 
free, and this halogen escapes with the steam. The boiling is continued until 
a piece of moistened starch-iodide paper, he^d in the vapor, is no longer 
turned blue, showing the absence of bromine. If the solution is now purple, 
showing an excess of KMoO,, a few drops of alcohol are added, the mixture 
is boiled with stirring, and the brown hydrated MnO, is filtered off. The fil- 
trate, which should be colorless, is treated with a few drops of AgNOg. A 
white precipitate, insoluble in HNO, and soluble in ammonium hydroxide 
proves the presence of a chloride. 

3. Vortmann's Method consists in acidifying the prepared 
solution with acetic acid, adding PbOj, and boiling until no more 



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THE ACIDS 179 

bromine and iodine are given off (as shown by tests) and Ibe 
solution on settling is colorless. 

All the hydrobromic acid and part of the bydriodic acid are 
oxidized by the PbO,; the remainder of the iodine, combined in 
the form of lead iodide, settles on the bottom of the beaker 
along with the excess of PbO, added. Filter and wash the 
precipitate with hot water, and test the filtrate for chlorides 
with AgNOg. 

ROTES 

Cyanides, ferrocyanides, ferricyanidea, and thioqranates interfere wilii the 
tests for the halides ; they must therefore be removed before the tests are 
applied. This is accomplished by completely predpitating both cyanides 
and halides nith AgNO„ then filtering, drying, separating the precipitate from 
the filter, and igniting in a dish or crndble. By this procedure, the cyanogen 
compounds are decomposed with the separation of Ag, while the silver halides 
remain unchanged. The latter are best got into solution by fusing them with 
Na^CO,, extracting the melt with water, and filtering. The filtrate will con- 
t^ NaCl, NaBr, Nal, and an excess of Na,CO,. The solution is acidified 
with HNOg and the tests for the halogen adds are made as given above. Or 
the residual silver halides may be treated with Zn and dilute sulphuric add, 
and the acdoa allowed to continue for half au hour. The halogens go into 
solution as Zn salts, and, after filtering, the filtrate is tested for the halogen 
adds as given above. 

Ferrocyanides 

A small portion of the prepared solution is acidiiied with 
HCI and a little FeCl, is then added. In the presence of a 
ferrocyanide, a blue precipitate of prussian blue is obtained. 

Fesricyanides 

1. To a small portion of the prepared solution acidified with 
HCI, add a freshly prep^ed solution of FeSOj ; the formation 
of a dark blue precipitate of TumbuH'sblue proves the presence 
of a fenicyanide. 

2. From a nitric acid solution, AgNOg precipitates reddish 
brown AggFe(CN)ft. 

Thiocyanates 

I. Acidify a portion of the prepared solution with HCI and 

add FeClg! a deep red coloration, due to the formation of 



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i8o QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

ferric thiocyanate, proves the presence of a thiocyanate. The 
solution is acidified with HCl to prevent the interference of 
(i) acetic acid, which, with FeClg, would give a red coloration 
owing to the formation of ferric acetate; and (2) to prevent 
tartaric acid and other hydroxy- acids from combining with 
FeCIa. 

irOTES 

Ferri- and feiro-cyanides interfere by yieldiag precipitates or blue solutions 
which may completely mask the red color due to HCNS. Iodine, set free by 
oxidizing agents which may be present, also interferes with this test by the 
color it imparts to the solution. All these interfering substances may be 
removed by distilling the HCNS. This is accomplished by adding to a por- 
tion of the prepared solution acidified with HCl a little SnCl, sufficient in 
amount to reduce any I or Br present to their corresponding halogen acids, 
boiling, and then absorbing the HCNS, which distills over, in a test tube con- 
taining FeClj, when characterbtic red Fe(CNS)a will be formed. 

Cyanides 

1. Cyanides will have been detected by the odor of HCN in 
the preliminary examination with HCl and concentrated HjSOj. 

2, To a portion of the prepared solution, add 2 cc. of NaOH 
solution, and treat with a little FeSO^ and a few drops of 
FeCls; heat gently for a short time and then acidify with HCl. 
A blue precipitate of Fe4[Fe(CN)g]g proves the presence of a 
cyanide (see reaction 3 under Cyanides). 

BOTES 

The presence of a ferricyanide, ferrocyanide, or thiocyanate interferes with 
test z. When these are present, proceed as follows ; Put into a small distill- 
ing flask about 15 cc. of water that has been saturated with CO,, add an 
excess of solid NaHCOg, and finally some of the powdered original substance. 
Quickly stopper the flask and distill under ahmd, catching the distillate in 
a little NaOH solution, and apply test 2. TFe HCN contained in the dis- 
tillate is derived only fivm the simple cyanide by the action of the relatively 
stronger carbonic acid. 

The method of Bamebey may abo be employed to advantage. This test 
depends upon the fact that alkali cyanide solutions have a solvent action on 
CuS. Render 10 cc. — CuSO, alkaline with NH^OH and treat with a few 
bubbles of H,S. Divide the suspension of CuS thus formed into 2 portions ; 
and to one add a little of the prepared solution and shake. Compare the 



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TBZ ACIDS i8i 

ttibes. A bleacfaii^ of the color in the treated tube shows the presence of a. 
cyanide. 

SuLPHroES 

1. Most sulphides will have been detected in the preliminary 
treatment with dilute HCI by the evolution of HjS, which may 
be recognized by its odor and by its property of turning lead 
acetate paper black. 

2. If ayua regia or strong HNOg is used to get a sulphide 
into solution, the latter will be oxidized to sulphate with more 
or less separation of sulphur. 

3. If treatment with HCI does not effect the decomposition 
of a sulphide, add Zn and dilute HjSOj to the substance con- 
tained in a test tube, loosely stoppered with a cork covered with 
filter paper moistened with lead acetate, and allow the mixture 
to stand for some time. Sulphides which do not respond to 
test I are usually decomposed by this treatment, yielding H^S, 
which will blacken the lead acetate paper. 

4. Sulphides unattacked by acids should be fused with a little 
NaOH on a porcelain crucible cover ; if the melt is placed on 
a bright silver coin and moistened with a drop of water, a black 
stain due to AgjS will form. 

It must be remembeTe<f, however, that sulphates in the pres- 
ence of organic matter may be reduced to sulphides when fused 
with NaOH, and thus give the final test 

. J. GROUP III 
jBf?'^™ -' Nitrates 

I. Acidify a portion oPthe prepared solution or the concen- 
trated water extract of the original substance with dilute HaSOj, 
then add an equal volume of concentrated HJSO4, and cool 
thoroughly in a stream of running water. Incline the tube and 
i carefully add 2 to 3 cc. of a strong freshly prepared FeSO^ solu- 
I tion, and allow the mixture to stand. In the presence of a 
I nitrate, a brown coloration will form at the junction of the two 
I liquids. 



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QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



Chromates, iodides, broTiudes, chlorates, fenicyanides, feirocjramdea, and 
permaogaiuites interfere with the test. Nitrites give the same reaction (see 
reaction 2). Iodides and bromides in contact with concentrated HeS04 are 
parUatly oxidized with the liberation of free I and Br ; these, by coloring the 
solution, interfere with the test. The halides may be removed by precipita- 
tion with AgiSOt (free from nitrates). Chromates will be reduced by FeSOj, 
yielding green Cr2(S04)j, which will obscure the brown color. Permanganates 
by their strong purple color will mask the reactioD. Both chromates and per- 
manganates may be removed by adding solid NagSO, and dilute H2S04, boil- 
ing until the solution is gi'een, and then precipitating the Cr and Mn salts 
with an excess of NaiCO.. Filter, addify the filtrate with dUute HjSOi, and 
make the test on the resulting solution. Chlorates interfere on account of 
ClOi, which will form on adding concentrated HaSOt; these will also be 
reduced by the above treatment. Ferro- and ferri-cyanides yield with FeSOt 
blue precipitates, and hence interfere with the reaction. These may be re- 
moved by the addition of ferrous and ferric salts and a little dilute H^SO^ 
heating the mixture to boiling, and adding BaQj to precipitate the HiS04- 
The H1SO4 and BaOj are added to form heavy BaSO«, which will have the 
effect of carrying down the blue precipitates, which are difficult to filter when 
alone. Altliough provision is made for the removal of interfering elements, 
these are of rare occurrence in mixtures ordinarily met with. The coloration 
test is therefore the one most frequently employed for the detection of the 
nitrates. 

2. Reduction to Ammonia. Render either the aqueous extract 
of the onginal substance or the prepared solution strongly alka- 
line with NaOH, and boil with stirring until no more ammonia 
is given off. Add some aluminum turnings, or a mixture of 
granulated zinc and iron filings, and heat again. In the presence 
of a nitrate or nitrite, the odor of ammonia will be evident (see 
reaction 5 under Nitrates). 

Nitrites 

1. Nitrites will have been detected in the preliminary exami- 
nation with dilute HCl; the NOj fumes given off may be readily 
detected by their property of turnuig starch-iodide paper blue, 

2. Brown Coloration Test. The same as with nitrates except 
that in this case acetic acid or dilute HSSO4 may be used instead 
of concentrated H35O4. 



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TEE ACIDS 183 

Acetates 

1. Acetates are detected in the preKmmary treatment of the 
original substance with concentrated HgS04 by the odor of 
vinegar. 

2. Treat some of the original solid substance contained in a 
small evaporating dish or beaker with l to 2 cc. of amyl alcohol 
and s cc. of concentrated HJSO4, and heat gently. The char- 
acteristic odor of amyl acetate ("pear essence") indicates the 
presence of an acetate. If ethyl alcohol is used, the odor of 
ethyl acetate will be made evident on warming) the mixture (see 
reaction 2 under Acetates). 

Chlorates 
I. Chlorates are recognized by their behavior when treated 
with concentrated H^SO^. Heat about i cc. of concentrated 
HjSOj in a test tube, remove from the flame, and under a hood 
{pointing moutk of tube toward back of hood')zAt, a very minute 
amount of the original substance. In the presence of a chlorate, 
greenish yellow ClOj will be evolved ; the evolution is accom- 
panied by a slight explosion if the gas is sufficiently heated. 

3. In the absence of halogen acids, a small portion of the 
solid substance is ignited in a small porcelain dish at a tempera- 
ture just below a red heat; it is then cooled, extracted with 
water, transferred to a test tube, and finally treated with a few 
drops of silver nitrate. A white curdy precipitate of AgCl 
proves the presence of a chlorate. 

3. If halogen acids are present, they must be removed by 
adding to the boiling solution acidified with HNOg an excess of 
AgNOg and filtering. To the filtrate, the volume of which 
should be 50 cc, add 5 cc. cone. HNOg and 5 cc. saturated SO, 
solution. Heat A white precipitate of AgCl proves the pres- 
ence of a chlorate. (See reaction 4 under Chlorates.') 



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PART III 

ANALYSIS OF GROUP UV (METALS) IN 
THE PRESENCE OF ORGANIC MATTER, 
PHOSPHATES, OXALATES, ETC 

The phosphates, fluorides, oxalates, borates, and silicates of 
the metals of Groups III. and IV., including Mg, are soluble in 
mineral acids, but are precipitated when the free acid which 
holds them in solution is neutralized by ammonium hydroxide. 
Should any of these acids be present in the original solution, 
they will offer no difficulties in the analysis of Groups I. and II,, 
for in these the solution is kept acid. On proceeding, however, 
to precipitate Group III. the solution is first rendered alkaline, 
and, as a consequence, there will be precipitated along with the 
metals of Group III, part or all of the metals of Group IV. as 
phosphates, oxalates, etc., depending upon the quantity of these 
acid radicals present. It is evident, therefore, that a different 
procedure from that given must be followed for the analysis of 
Group III. if these acids are present. 

It will be recalled that certain non-volatile organic acids and 
compounds, as tartaric acid, citric acid, sugar, and starch, hinder 
the precipitation of the trivalent elements Al, Cr, and Fe(-ic) as 
hydroxides and basic acetates. For this reason, before proceed- 
ing with the Third Group analysts, it is necessary to test for non- 
volatile, organic matter, and, if found, to remove it The 
presence of organic matter will have been indicated on heating 
a small portion of the original substance in a tube closed at one 
end. Blackening of the residue, accompanied by a burnt odor, 
indicates the presence of organic matter. If the substance 
under examinatioa is a solution, evaporate a small portion to 



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i86 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

dryness, heat to a dull red heat, and look for indications of 
organic matter. 

Test for an Oxalate. To a small portion of the filtrate from 
Group II., from which the H^S has heen expelled, add an ex- 
cess of Na^COg, boil vigorously for a moment, and filter. Render 
the filtrate slightly acid with acetic acid, boil oflf the CO,, and 
then add an equal volume of a saturated CaS04 solution ; a white 
crystalline precipitate proves the presence of an oxalate. 

Organic, matter and oxalates may both be removed by the 
following procedure ; To the residue obtained by evaporating 
the filtrate from Group II. to dryness, add S cc. cone. HjSO^ and 
heat gently until the mass has completely charred. Cool. Add 
5 cc. cone. HNO3 and heat (gently at first) until fumes of SOg 
are given off. Cool. Add 5 cc. more cone. HNOg and evapo- 
rate again to SOj fumes. Repeat this treatment with HNO3 
and evaporating to SOg fumes until the solution is either color- 
less or possesses only a faint straw color. (Three treatments 
are generally sufficient.) Cool. Cautiously dilute with 25 cc. 
water, boil to expel gases and filter using a double filter. 
Analyze the filtrate for Groups III. and V. and for Ca, if the 
latter is not found in the residue. The residue may consist of 
BaSO^, SrSO,, CaSO, and anhydrous Crj(SO,V Boil the 
residue for 10 minutes with 20 cc. of a saturated Na^CO, solu- 
tion and filter. Wash the residue until the washings after 
being acidified with HCl, fail to give a test for sulphates. 
Reject filtrate and washings. Heat residue with 15 cc. diL 
HNOg and filter. Analyze filtrate for Cr, Ba, Sr, and Ca. 

Test for Phosphates. To about 2 cc. of the filtrate from 
Group II., from which the H^S has been removed, add a few 
drops of concentrated HNOg and evaporate nearly to dryness ; 
take up with a little dilute HNOj, transfer to a test tube, add an 
equal volume of ammonium molybdate solution, and heat gently 
{do not boil). A yellow precipitate of (NH4)8P04 • 12 MoO, 
proves the presence of a phosphate. 

Silicates, if present, should have been detected in the prelim- 
inary examination of the solid substance with a NaPOg bead ; and 
should have been removed, preferably before proceeding with 



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PHOSPHATE SEPARATION 187 

the metallic analysis, by evaporating the solution add with HCl 
or HNOg* to dryness, desiccating at 120°, extracting the residue 
with a few cc. of concentrated HCl,* diluting, heating, and filter- 
ing off the dehydrated and insoluble silica. The latter may then 
be verified by the NaPOg head test, or by treatment in a plati- 
num crucible with CaFj and concentrated HjSO^, heating, and 
testing the escaping vapor with a drop of water (see reaction I, 
page 132). 

If, however, the analysis has befcn begun without regard to 
the presence of silicates, the filtrate from Group II, should be 
tested for this acid radical, and, if found, removed by the pro- 
cedure just outlined, before proceeding to precipitate Group III. 

Borates and fluorides are usually held in solution by the 
NHjCl present, and hence in their presence no modification 
of the usual scheme need be made. 

Outline of Method to be Used In the Presence of Phosphates 
Oxalates, silicates, fiuorides, borates, and non-volatile organic 
matter having been disposed of, it only remains to provide a 
method of analysis for the Third Group metals which shall 
include the presence of phosphates. The scheme which follows 
is based upon the fact that of the phosphates of Groups III. 
and IV,, only those of Al, Cr, and Fe (-ic) are insoluble in acetic 
acid; if, therefore, the iron is oxidized and the free HCl is 
replaced by acetic acid, part or all of the trivalent metals pres- 
ent will be precipitated as phosphates, depending upon the 
quantity of phosphoric acid present. If the amount of FO^ is 
less than that required to combine with all of the Fe(-ic), Al, 
and Cr, the precipitate which forms will contain all the PO^. 
If, on the other hand, the quantity of PO4 present exceeds that 
required to unite with the trivalent metals, it will be evident that 
more trivalent metals will have to be added to completely pre- 
cipitate the PO4. The metallic radical used for this purpose is 
Fe(-ic), partly because its phosphate is the least soluble in acetic 
acid, but chiefly because it is possible, when a salt of ferric iron 
is used, to tell when all the phosphate has been precipitated ; for 
' If meUli of the fint group txe pietent, ute HNO( instead of HO. 



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i88 qUAUTATlVE^ CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

when this condition is reached, any excess of ferric salt added 
will yield with the acetate radical present red ferric acetate, 
which can readily be recognized by its color. Now, on adding 
an excess of NaCgHgOj, largely diluting, boiling the solution, 
and rapidly filtering, the separation of all of the trivalent metals, 
including the excess of iron added, together with all the phos- 
phoric acid, is accomplished (see reactions 6 and 7 under /ro», 
pages 83 and 84). The filtrate, now free from PO^, is concen- 
trated by evaporation, and then treated for the remaining metals 
of Groups III. and IV. in the usual way. 



The Phosphate Sepoiatloii 

If phosphates are shown to be present, the entire filtrate from 
Group II. is boiled until all of the H3S is expelled, a few drops 
of concentrated HNOs are then added, and the solution boiled 
for several minutes to insure the complete oxidation of the 
iron present. Test a separate small portion, about 2 cc, 
for iron by adding a few drops of KjFe{CN)((. A blue pre- 
cipitate proves the presence of iron. The remainder of the 
solution is transferred to a beaker of 500 cc. capacity and is 
treated with ammonium hydroxide, added drop by drop with 
vigorous stirring, until a sl^ht precipitate is produced which 
persists after stirring for 3 minutes. Now add caatiausly, with 
constant stirring, dilute HCl, drop by drop, until a clear solu- 
tion is obtained; then add 8 g. of NH^CjHgOj and 8 cc. of 
50 per cent, acetic acid. If the solution is not red, add FeClj 
solution drop by drop,with stirring, until the solution assumes a 
deep red color, avoiding an excess. In the presence of a pre- 
cipitate, the color of the solution may be seen by filtering a 
small portion ; the filtrate should give, when made alkaline with 
NH^OH, a reddish brown precipitate of Fe(OH)g, showing that 
an excess of Fe (-ic) is present ; if a light-colored precipitate is 
obtained with NH^OH, more FeClg should be added. Now dilute 
the solution with hot water to 400 cc, heat rapidly to boiling, 
and boil for 3 minutes only. Allow the precipitate to settle, 
filter on a large fluted filter contained in a 10 cm. funnel, and wash 



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PREPARATION OF THE SOLUTION 189 

with hot water. The residue may consist of the phosphates 
and basic acetates of Al, Cr, and Fe(-ic), and it may also con- 
tain small amounts of Ni, Mn, and Zn. The filtrate, which 
should not have a yellow color, is at once evaporated in a large 
evaporating dish to 50 cc, and any precipitate which separates 
out is filtered off and rejected. The filtrate, now concentrated 
and free from PO4, is analyzed as usual for Groups III,, IV., 
and V. ; the tests for Al, Cr, and Fe should be omitted, as these 
metals will be in the residue from the basic acetate separation. 
The precipitate, consisting of the phosphates and basic acetates 
of Al, Cr, and Fe (-ic), is transferred to a beaker with the aid 
of 20 cc. of water, 2 g. Na^Oj are added, the mixture is boiled, 
with stirring, and finally filtered. The residue, consisting of 
Fe(OH)s, is rejected. The filtrate may contain NajAlOj, 
Na^CrOj, NagPO^, and an excess of NaOH. If the solution is 
yellow, chromium is present; if colorless, Cr is absent Alumi- 
num is detected by acidifying the solution with HNOg and then 
rendering alkaline with ammonium hydroxide; the white gelati- 
nous precipitate of AlPO^ or Al(OHg) is filtered off, washed 
with hot water several times, and the presence of aluminum is 
confirmed by igniting with a few drops of Co(NOg)3 in the 
usual way. The filtrate will contain the chromium as NagCrO^. 



PREPARATION OF THE SOLUTION 

The preliminary tests completed, the next step in the system- 
atic examination is to get the substance into solution. This 
is accomplished by the use of the solvents, water, nitric acid, 
hydrochloric acid, and agt^ regia. In determining the solvent, 
it is advisable to experiment with small portions of the original 
substance at first, finally treating, after the proper solvent has 
been found, about one gram of the original material for the 
analysis. With mixtures, more than one solvent may be re- 
quired. In such a case, it is a good plan to keep, and analyze 
separately, portions dissolved by different solvents; the addi- 
tional labor involved will be compensated by the information 



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I90 QUAUTATI7E CBBMICAL ANALYSIS 

which this procedure will supply conceming the manner in 
which the metallic and acid radicals are united. 



Treatment with Water 
Treat a small quantity of the finely powdered substance with 
about 25 cc. of water and heat to boiling. If solution takes 
place, treat one gram of the sample in the same way and analyze 
the resulting solution for the metals and acids. Test the aque- 
ous solution with litmus; if alkaline, the presence of a car- 
bonate, hydroxide, sulphide, phosphate, borate, or cyanide is 
indicated ; if acid, it may point to an acid salt, free acid, or the 
salt of a heavy metal. If no solution appears to have taken 
place, filter, and evaporate some of the clear filtrate on a watch 
glass to dryness; if only a slight residue remains, the substance 
may be considered insoluble in water; if a moderate amount of 
residue Is left, it indicates that the mixture contains a water- 
soluble component. In that case, treat a gram sample with 
boiling water and filter. Analyze the aqueous extracts for acids- 
and bases. Treat the residue with acids as given below. 

ROTES 
If iodides or bromides, particulaily the fbnner, have beea indicated in the- 
preliminary test with cone. HgSO^ the original substance, whether it dissolves 
wholly or in part in water, must be treated for the removal of these faalldes 
before the analysis for the metals is begun. This is accomplished by treating 
the substance with HNO, and heating until no more I is evolved. If iodides, 
are not removed, there will be danger of forming txpiosive brownish black 
nitrogen iodide, 10 making the preliminary test for Group III., because of the 
actioa of iodine set free by the treatment with HNOj, on the ammonia which 
Si next added. 

Treatment with Adds 
If the substance is insoluble in water, treat it or the residue 
from the water treatment successively with hot dilute HCl and 
hot concentrated HCL If these fail to effect solution, try the 
action of dilute and concentrated HNOg on separate small por- 
tions; if these also fail, add HCl to the mixture containing 
HNOg, thus forming aqua regia, and beat. If still insoluble,, 



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PREPARATION OP TUB SOLUTION 191 

examine it by the method given for "InsolubU Substances," 
page 197. 

BOTES 

1. During the treatment with HCl, indicatioDS of the presence of certain 
acids will be given (see "* PreUtKinary Examination^'' page 163). 

2. If Hg and As are present, boiling with HCl may cause these elements 
to be lost by volatilization \ the remedy is to be sought in the use of HNO„ 
which oxidizes them into compounds which aie not readily volatile. 

3. If complete solution with HQ is obtained, the absence of Ag, Hg (-ous), 
and large amounts of Pb b indicated. Evaporate the solution nearly to dry- 
ness to expel most of the add, dilute, and analyze the resulting solution, 
beginning with Scheme II. 

4. Treatment with concentrated HCl may cause the precipitation of Pb in 
the form of crystalline needles of PbCI, ; when this is the case, filter them olF, 

dissolve in boiling water, and test for Pb. 

5. If the HG treatment causes gelatinous silicic add to separate, evapo- 
rate the mixture on the water bath to dryness, dehydrate by heating to 120° C. 
for half an hour, extract with 3 cc< of hot concentrated HNO, or HCl, 
dilute, heat, and filter off the SiOf The filtrate is then examined for the 

6. If HNO, has been used as a solvent, boil the liquid down to about 
I cc, dilute with 20 cc. of water, and if the solution douds on dilution, clear 
with a few drops of HNO, and analyze the solution for all groups. 

7. When aqiia r^ia is employed, the smallest possible amount should be 
used ; the solution should then be evaporated down to about i cc. to destroy 
the excess, diluted with 1 5 cc. of water, and the chlorides of Group I. filtered 
off and analyzed. The filtrate is treated with 5 cc. of concentrated HG and 
again evaporated down to I cc, diluted somewhat, and analyzed for the metals, 
beginning with Group II. 

8. With few exceptions, the following substances, while insoluble in water, 
are dissolved by boiling HCl or HNO, : all phosphates, arsenates, arsenites, 
borates, carbonates, oxalates, and tartrates (the allcali salts are soluble in water) ; 
also the oxides, hydroxides, sulphides of the heavy metals, alumina, magnesia, 
and a number of metallic iodides and cyanides. Oxides of Al, Fe, and Cr 
which have heated intensdy do not dissolve readily in these adds. 

9. Because of its oxidizing action, HNO^ dissolves sulphides and most 
metals and alloys which are not attacked by HG ; the latter, on the other 
hand, dissolves the oxides of Sn and Sb, as well as MnOy all of which are 

not dissolved by HNO,. 



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192 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

METALS AND ALLOYS 

From as to I gram of the metal or alloy, in the form of shav- 
ings, foit, filings, or turnings, is treated with 20 cc. of HNOg sp. 
gr. 1.2) and is heated gently (under a hood) until no more red 
fumes of NO) are given off ; it is then diluted with an equal 
volume of water, heated again for a few minutes, and filtered 
if necessary. If complete solution takes place, the absence of 
Au, Ft, Sb, and Sn is shown ; * in that case, expel the excess of 
HNOg by evaporatioa, dilute with water, and analyze the solu- 
tion for all groups except IV. and V. Mg, however, must he 
included. 

(d) If a metallic re^due is left, it is probably Ft or Au t, or 
both. 

{b) If a white residue is left which is insoluble on dilution 
and heating, it may consist of bydrated SnO, or Sb^O^ or both, 
admixed with arsenic in the form of tin arsenate, phosphorus in 
the form of tin phosphate, bismuth as BigOg, and traces of Cu 
and Pb. Filter. 



FUtrats. Evap- 
orate to drive off 
excess of HNO,. 
Add Ha to ppt. 
ist group and fil- 
ter. Analyze resi- 
due for Group I. 
Treat filtrate with 
HtS and filter. 
Analyze filtrate for 
Group III. and Mg. 
Dissolve residue in 
hot dil. HNO. and 
unite with solution 
of residue 2. 



Dry and fuse residue in a porcelain crudble with 4 
times its wdght of a mixture of equal parts of NajCOi and 
S; cool, extract melt with hot water, and filter. 



Residue 2 is CuS, BiiSi, 
PbS. Dissolve in hot dil. 
HNOi and combine with 
the corresponding solution 
obtained from the first fil- 
trate and proceed as di- 
rected in the analysis of the 
m^n filtrate in Scheme II. 



FUtnU will contain the 
As, Sb, and Sn as thio-salts 
4 an excess of NajS. Just 
acidify with HCl, filter, and 
reject filtrate. Residue may 
consist of AsiSi, SbiSg, and 
SnSg + S ; analyze accord- 
ing to Scheme II. B. 



• Hinnte UDOiintt of Sb dinolve completelf in HNO*; •Qrct aUori containing ■ 
very unall amannt of Ft are completely diaaolTcd by HNO*. 
t A black rendue of carbon or graphite i* x 



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INSOLUBLE SUBSTANCES 



1. If solution of the alloj does Dot readily take place, and Ft and Au are 
absent, treat with HCI ; ttie latter is more satisfactory than HNOa as a solvent 
for Al, since the latter is only difficultly soluble in HNOa. HNOi is used in- 
Mead of HCI, first, because it is the better solvent for metals and alloys ; second, 
because treatment with HQ would convert any P, S, and As usually present as 
phosphide, sulphide, and arsenide, respectively, into PHo, HsS and AsHs, which 
would be lost by volatilization. HNOg oxidizes these elements to their corre- 
sponding acids, vb. : HsPOi, H3SO4 and HaAsOi. Only these acids t<^ther 
with HiSiOs need to be tested for in the analysis of alloys. 

2. A small white residue may be boiled with concentrated HCI and the 
resulting liquid divided into two portions. One portion is tested with Pt and 
Zn couple fbr Sb. The other is heated with an iron nail for some time and 
the clear decanted solution tested for Sn by the addition of HgCU. 

3. A portion of the HNOa filtrate may be tested for HaPO, and HiSO,, 
and, if found, P and S reported. 

INSOLUBLE SUBSTANCES 
By an insoluble substance we mean one which cannot be got 
into solution by the action of the acids taken singly or together. 
The most common insoluble substances are the following : — 
C, S, AgaFeCCN)^. Ag^Fe{CNV AgCN, AgCl, AgBr, Agl, 
BaSO,, SrSOj, CaSOi, PbSO^, PbClj, fused PbCrO^, ignited or 
anhydrous chromic salts, ignited and native oxides, as Al^Og 
(corundum), FcjOj, SnOj (cassiterite), CrjOg, CrjOg ■ FeO 
(chrome-iron ore), CaFj, SbjO,, Fe4[Fe(CN)g]a, SiOj, and cer- 
tain silicates. 

Carbon is generally recognized by its black color, insolubility 
in agt^a regia, and combustibility when heated strongly on plati- 
num foil. When heated with KNO3, deflagration ensues with 
the formation of K2CO3 ; this method is not applicable to graph- 
ite, the presence of which may be determined by its physical 
properties. 

Solphtir is recognized (in the preliminary testing) by the for- 
mation of a yellow sublimate and evolution of SOg when heated 
in a glass tube. 

When S and C are present, it is desirable to remove them by 
roasting in an open porcelain crucible. 



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194 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Treatment with agua regia will have converted the simple 
and complex cyanides, as well as all the halides of Ag, into 
AgCl; the latter dissolves to a large extent in the strong acids, 
but separates out again when the latter are diluted. Long 
treatment with aqua regia will dissolve pnissian blue, but the 
following method is preferable for complex insoluble cyanides 
in general : Boil the substance with a strong solution of NaOH, 
dilute and filter ; the residue will contain the heavy metal as 
hydroxide, while the filtrate will contain the acid radical in the 
form of the Na salt and may be examined by the methods 
already given,* 

PbSO^ and PbCl, may be dissolved by treatment with hot, 
strong NH^CjHgO] solution. The extract is divided into three 
portions: in the first, test for Fb by the addition of a little 
H,S04 or KjCrO^ ; in the second, test for CI by diluting, acidi- 
fying with HNOg, and adding AgNO^; and in the third, test 
for SO4 by acidifying with HCl, filtering if necessary, and add- 
ing BaClj 

Sulphates of the AUcallae Earth Metals are best fused in a 
platinum crucible with five times their weight of anhydrous 
NajCOg ; the melt is then completely extracted with hot water, 
filtered, and the residue is thoroughly washed with water. The 
residue will consist of the carbonates of alkaline earths, which 
may readily be got into solution with hydrochloric acid, and 
the resulting solution tested in the usual way. The water ex- 
tract will contain the acid radical as Na^O^ and an excess of 
NaaCOa. 

SrSOj, CaSOf, and PbSO^ may be quantitatively converted 
into the corresponding carbonates by prolonged boiling with a 
concentrated NaaCOj solution. If the residue after filtering 
is thoroughly washed free from alkali, it may then readily be 
dissolved by acid. 

BaSO^ requires several treatments for its complete transfor- 
mation by NagCOg solution. One treatment changes about 80 
per cent, of this sulphate into carbonate. 

* For method of uuJyHii of imoluble donble c;uudM not prediutated by esces 
of NkOH, lee pige 151 under Ftrrtcyanida, reaction 3, 



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INSOLUBLE SUBSTANCES 195 

Fused PbCrO^, Cr^O,, Chrome Iron Ore and Ignited Chromic 
Salts are best fused with Na^Og in a nickel crucible or with a 
mixture of NajCOg and NaNOg. By this treatment, soluble 
Na3Cr04 is formed, which after treatment with water is sep- 
arated by filtering and tested for in the filtrate. 

SaO] and Sb]04 are got into solution by fusing in a porcelain 
crucible with three times their weight of Na^COs mixed with an 
equal quantity of S. The melt is extracted with hot water and 
filtered. The filtrate will contain the Sb and Sn in the form of 
thio-salts ; it is just acidified and the precipitate treated accord- 
ing to Scheme II. B. 

AljOfl and Vefi^ are fused in platinum with KHSO4 or KjSsOt, 
whereby they are converted into soluble sulphates. Fusion with 
NagCOj, followed by acid treatment, also takes these oxides in 
solution. 

Silver Ealldes may be treated by one of the following two 
methods : — 

1. Fuse with NajCOa in a porcelain crucible. The product 
will consist of metallic silver and the sodium salts of the halides ; 
extract with water and filter. Test the residue for Ag and the 
filtrate for halogens. 

2. Treat with Zn and dilute H3SO4 in a crucible or small dish ; 
allow the action to continue for 20 minutes, and then filter. Test 
the residue for Ag and the filtrate for halogens. 

SiOj and Silicates are recognized by the " skeleton " NaPO, 
bead. 

Silicates are usually decomposed by fusing with five times 
their weight of a mixture of equal parts of anhydrous Na,COg 
and KjCOg, to which about 0.1 g. of KNOg is added. This will 
be taken up more fully in the systematic treatment 

CaFa is decomposed by heating the finely ground material 
with concentrated HaS04 in a platinum dish or crucible, and 
evaporating until no more SO, fumes are given off. The resi- 
due will be CaSO^ ; extract it with water for some time and filter. 
Test the filtrate for Ca with {SHi^CiOf 



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196 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

STstematlc Treatment of bisolable Substances 
Before proceeding with the systematic treatment of a residue 
insoluble in acids, it is desurable to make the following prelimi- 
nary tests : — 

1. Examine the residue carefully with a lens and determine 
whether or not the substance is homogeneous. 

2. Determine whether free C and S are present : if present, 
remove by roasting. 

3. Chromic oxide is green and will be made evident by yield- 
ing a green bead with NaPOg which is unaffected by the reduc- 
ing flame ; at the same time, indications of SiOg or of a silicate 
will also be obtained. 

4. If the substance is white, treat it with a little {NH4)3S. 
If it blackens, the presence of Ag or Pb salts is indicated ; con- 
firm as directed in (5). 

5. If black or colored, mix a small amount with NajCOg and 
heat on charcoal with a reducing flame ; a lustrous malleable 
globule shows the presence of either Pb, Ag, or Sn. Flatten 
the globule in a mortar and heat with dilute HNOg. A clear 
solution indicates the absence of Sn ; a white residue, the pres- 
ence of Sn. Divide the HNOj solution into two portions. To 
the first add HCl; a white precipitate soluble in NH^OH shows 
the presence of Ag. To the second portion add dilute H^SO^ ; 
a white precipitate is PbSOj. If no globule is obtained and the 
white substance is not blackened by(NH4)aS, the absence of Pb 
and Ag is shown. 

6. Flame Test Take up some of the material on a mois- 
tened Pt wire and hold in the reducing flame for some time. 
The reducing flame will change the sulphates of the alkaline 
earths to sulphides. Moisten the wire with a drop of HCI and 
hold in the colorless bunsen flame. Alkaline earths impart 
their characteristic colorations to the flame. 

7. If test 3 above is found unsatisfactory for SiO, and Cr, 
the following may be used ; — 

SiOg. Mix the finely powdered substance in a platinum cru- 
cible or lead tube with a small quantity of CaF, (SiOj free), add 



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SCBEUB FOR INSOLUBLE St/BSTANCES 197 

concentrated HjSOj, and warm. Hold in the escaping vapors 
a drop of water on the loop of a Pt wire ; if the drop becomes 
turbid, SiOj is present 

Chromiom. Prepare a Na,COg bead. Take up a little of the 
substance mixed with KCiOg and heat Place bead in about 
1 cc. of water and heat, A yellow solution indicates Cr. 

Scheme for the Treatment of Insolable Substances 

If the substance contains Pb salts, these may readily be 
removed by repeatedly digesting with hot {NHj)^^!^^©, or 
NHfCtHgOg solution, fUtering, and testing the filtrate for Pb, 
SOf, and CI. The residue, which should be thoroughly washed 
and tested until free from Pb salts [shown by wash water no 
longer reacting with (NH4),S], is then treated with KCN solution 
to dissolve AgCl, AgBr, Agl, and AgCN, filtered, and washed. 
The treatment with KCN is given only when Ag salts are shown 
to be present by preUminary test with Zn + HaSO,. The KCN 
extract is tested for Ag by adding (NH4)jS, filtering off the 
AggS, washing, and dissolving in hot dilute HNO3. To the clear 
solution, add HCl; a white precipitate is AgCL If S and C are 
present, heat in an open porcelain crucible till all C and S are 
oxidized. Mix the substance, now free from Pb and Ag salts, in 
a platinum crucible with six times Its weight of a mixture of 
equal parts of anhydrous powdered KjCOg and Na^COg + 0,1 g. 
of KNOy (If reducible metals have not been removed, treat in 
a Ni crucible. Porcelain cannot be used, as it gives up SiOg, 
Ca, and Al to the melt.) Heat over a blast lamp till the mass is 
in a state of quiet fusion. Remove flame. When cool, transfer 
crucible to a casserole or evaporating dish, and extract with 
boiling water. Break up the mass with pestle during extrac- 
tion. Allow finally to settle, and filter. 



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198 



QVAUTATIVB CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



FUtnto majr contain NatSiO*, Na,Ci04, 
NaF, Na,P04, Na,AIO„ Na,SO„ Na^nO^ 
Na,AsO« (NaSbOO. Na^nO« Na^BO. 
and Na^Of, as well as K salts of these 
adds. Divide into two equal portions. 

istportioH. Addify with HCl and add 
a small portion to the HNOt solution of the 
residue j if no ppt. forms, unite the two fil- 
trates, evap. to dryness, dehydrate SiOj by 
headng at 120° C. till all HCI b driven oE 
Extractthe residue with a; cc of cone. HCl, 
stir thoroughly, add 25 cc. of water, and 
boil with stirring; filter. 



Esddne: 



Heat filtrate to boiling and 
treat with HtS. Without fil- 
tering, dilute with cold water 
to 100 cc. and saturate again 
with H,S. Filter. Analyze 
residue for II. A and II. B. 
Analyze filtrate for all other 
groups. 



adportum. Treat for adds. 



Residue may consist of BaCO^ 
SrCO„ CaCO„ possibly ALO, 
MgO, Fe,0^ SnO,, andunattadced 
SiO„ and in some cases nearly 
any metal or its oxide ; wash sev- 
eral times with hot water. Treat 
with hot dil. HNO, and filter. 



FUtrate b to 
be united with 

HQ solution of 
aqueous extract 
of melt unless a 
ppt. forms ; in 
that case, keep 



the 



olutio 



The 
ppta. produced 
by the same 
group reagents 
may be united 
and examined 
together. 



Sesidne may 
consist of SiOi, 
SnOt, and 
AI,0,. Fuse in 
a Ni crucible 
with NaOH. 
Extract with 
water and filter. 
Filtrate con- 
tains NajSnO,, 
NajAlO, + 
Na,SiO,. Test 
for AI and Sn, 
if not alreadj 



Detection of Alkalies in Insoluble Silicates 

The J. LavTeace Smith Method. One gram of the finely 
ground mineral is first pulverized in an agate mortar with its 
own weight of C.P, NH^Cl, and the resulting mixture is then 
thoroughly mixed with 8 grams of alkali-free CaCOs and 
heated in a covered platinum crucible, gently at first and finally 
to a dull red heat, for 40 minutes. The crucible should be 
placed in a hole made in a piece of thick asbestos board in such 
a way that only two-thirds of the crucible can be directly heated 
by the burner. The mass does not fuse but sinters. The active 
agent is fused CaCIj, which decomposes the silicate with the 
formation of chlorides of the alkali metals. After cooling, the 
crucible with its contents is transferred to a casserole, boiled 
with water, and the CaO is allowed to slake. The last opera- 



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ACID ANALYSIS OF MINERALS, ETC. 199 

tion may be hastened by crushing any lumps with a pestle. 
After standing for one hour, the mixture is filtered, and the 
filtrate is freed of lime by rendering it alkaline with ammonium 
hydroxide, heating, adding (NH4)2COg to complete precipita- 
tion, and finally a little (NH4)aCa04. Filter, evaporate the 
filtrate to dryness, and ignite the residue to drive o£E NH^ salts. 
The residue is then treated in the usual way for K and Na. 



Acid Analysis of Hiaerals and Metallargical Products 

With a few exceptions, minerals and slags need only be 
tested for sulphides, carbonates, silicates, phosphates, borates, 
sulphates, fluorides, and chlorides. Carbonates and snlphides 
may be detected by treatment with HCl, and silica or sili- 
cates by the NaPOg bead test. In the HNOg solution of the 
finely powdered substance, the tests for phosphates, cbloiides, 
and sulphates (in the absence of sulphides) may be made. If 
the chloride is present in an insoluble form, as AgCl, it should 
be treated by one of the methods already mentioned (see page 
195). In the absence of sulphides, the test for sulphates may 
also be made by fusing the original substance with NaaCOa, ex- 
tracting the melt with boiling water, and filtering ; the filtrate, 
after acidifying with HCl and boiling to drive out the CO3, is 
then treated with BaClj. If sulphides are present, boil the 
finely powdered substance, with constant stirring, with a satu- 
rated solution of Na^COg, then filter, acidify the' filtrate with 
HCl, and add BaClj; or if the original substance dissolves com- 
pletely in HCl, the resulting solution may be treated with BaCIj. 
For the detection of flaorides in the presence of silicates, see 
test 3 under Fluorides, page 173. For the detection of borates 
in silicates undecomposed by concentrated HjSO^, see reaction 
6 under Borates, page 1 36. 

The tests for borates and flaorides, when these occur together 
in combination with silicates, may be carried out in one sample 
by fusing about one gram with Na^COg, extracting the mass 
with boiling water, and filtering. The filtrate will then contain 



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2O0 QUAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

NajSiOj, NaF, NaBOa + the excess of NaaCO,. A portion of 
this solution, after slightly acidifying with HCl, may be tested 
for boric acid with turmeric paper. The remainder of the aque- 
ous extract is then tested for a fluoride, as described in test 3 
under Fluorides (see page i/j). 



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TABLE OF SOLVBIUTIES 



TABLE OF SOLUBILITIES* 

Skewing the classes to which the compounds of the commonly 
occurring elements belong in respect to their solubility in water, 
hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, or agua regia. 



Preliminary Remarks 

For the sake of brevity, the classes to which the compounds 
belong are expressed by letters. These have the following 
signification : 

W or w, soluble in water. 

A or a, insoluble in water, but soluble in hydrochloric acid, 
□itric acid, or in aqua regia. 

I or i, insoluble in water, hydrochloric acid, or nitric acid. • 

Further, substances standing on the border lines are indicated 
as follows : 

W-A or w-a, difficultly soluble in water, but soluble in 
hydrochloric acid or nitric acid. 

W— I or w-i, difficultly soluble in water, the solubility not 
being greatly increased by the addition of acids. 

A-I or a-i, insoluble in water, difficultly soluble in acids. 

If the behavior of a compound to hydrochloric and nitric 
acids is essentially different, this is stated in the notes. 

Capital letters indicate common substances used in the arts 
and in medicine, while the small letters are used for those less 
commonly occurring. 

The salts are generally considered as normal, but basic and 
acid salts, as well as double salts, in case they are important in 
medicine or in the arts, are referred to in the notes. 

The small numbers in the table refer to notes on the following 



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QUALITATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 



SOLUBILITY 





1 


1 




1 


3 


1 


S 


i 
1 


1 


& 


; 


1 


1 


0<id. 


W 

w 
w„ 
w 

w 

w 

w 

w 
w 


w 

«. 
w 

w 


w 

w 
w 
w 

w 

w 
w 
w 

». 

. w 
w 


w 

A 


I 
w 

w 

> 


W-A 

A. 

A-I 
A 

w- 

W-A„ 
A 


w 


A 


Aftl 

W&I„ 

■mtd 


A 

if 

A 

m 

A-l 
A» 

w 






1 


















































F«iocTuid> 
















Chloiue 


- 


































AA*IlU* 


■ 



Notes to Table of Solubilities 

1. Potassium dichroroate, W. 

2. Potassium borotartrate, W. 

3. Hydrogen potassium oxalate, W. 

4. Hydrogen potassium carbonate, W. 

5. Hydrogen potassium tartrate, W. 

6. Ammonium potassium tartrate, W, 

7. Sodium potassium tartrate, W. 

8. Ammonium sodium phosphate, W. 

9. Acid sodium borate, W. 



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TABLE OP SOLUBILITIES 



] 


1 


1 


1 


1 

a. 


a 


1 


1 


1 


J 


! 


! 


1 


J 




, 


A 




A. 


A 




A 


^ 


, 




, 


, 


Ji&i 


-A*. 


Oiida 








A-X 






















ChroDoR 


w. 


W 


W-A 


A-I 


T 


"« 


W, 


■ 


w 






: 


' 


W-. 


Pbcphu. 
Bd»lc 

Oisdue 






























Fluorkk 


* 


, 




A 


■ 


■ 


A 


' 


; 












Cubonuc 

smStP 


w 






w-l 


A-l 


T« 


W 


W-Aa 






w„.„ 




w« 


W-A„ 


Cblwkte 


















w 












Bntoide 








W-A 


A 




«i. 




w 




i 








lodi* 


I 


I 




1 




w 


i 




■ 


w. 


' 


f 


i 




Fcnicruida 
































A 






A 


A 


A« 


»n 


A. 




*N 




■a 


•a 


A«« 


Sulphidi 


I 


* 




W 


X" 


W' 


W 


^ 


-1!_ 












Niinue 
Chlonu 




























•W 


TmntB 






























Ciuue 




w 


























Maku 


»-» 




























Succnua 




" 


" 


H^i 


' 


W-. 


w 




■* 












Salk^lau 




w 










w. 


















« 


w 




























' 


' 




' 


" 


J__ 


* 












j_ 


; 





Hydrogen sodium carbonate, W. 
Tricalcium phosphate, A. 
Ammonium magnesium phosphate, A. 
Potassium aluminum sulphate, W. 
Ammonium aluminum sulphate, W. 
Potassium chromium sulphate, W. 
i6. Zinc sulphide,'as a sphalerite, soluble in nitric acid with 

separation of sulphur ; in hydrochloric acid only upon 

heating. 
17. Manganese dioxide, easily soluble in hydrochloric acid; 

insoluble in nitric add. 



IS- 



IS 



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ao4 QVAUTATIVE CHEMICAL ANALYSIS 

i8. Nickel sulphide is rather easily decomposed by nitric 

acid ; very difEcultly by hydrochloric add. 
19, Cobalt sulphide, like nickel sulphide, 
zo. Ammonium ferrous sulphate, W. 

21. Ammonium ferric chloride, W. 

22. Potassium ferric tartrate, W. 

23. Silver sulphide, only soluble in nitric acid. 

24. Minium is converted by hydrochloric acid into lead 

chloride ; by nitric acid into soluble lead nitrate and 
brown lead peroxide which is insoluble in nitric add. 

25. Tribesic lead acetate, W. 

26. Mercurius solubilis Hahnemanni, A. 

27. Basic.merciiric sulphate, A. 

28. Mercuric amido-chloride, A. 

29. Mercuric sulphide, not soluble in hydrochloric acid, nor 

in nitric acid, but soluble in aqua regia upon heating. 

30. Ammonium cupric sulphate, W. 

31. Copper sulphide is decomposed with difficulty by hydro- 

chloric add, but easily by nitric acid. 

32. Basic cupric acetate, partially soluble in water, and com- 

pletely in adds. 

33. Basic bismuth chloride, A. 

34. Basic bismuth nitrate, A. 

35. Sodium auric chloride, W, 

36. Gold sulphide is not dissolved by hydrochloric acid, nor 

by nitric acid, but it is dissolved by hot aqua regia. 

37. Potassium chlorplatinate, W-I. 

38. Ammonium chlorplatinate, W-I, 

39. Platinum sulphide is not attacked by hydrochloric acid, 

is but slightly attacked by boiling nitric acid (if it has 
been precipitated hot), but is dissolved by hot aqua regia. 

40. Ammonium stannic chloride, W. 

41. Stannous sulphide and stannic sulphide are decomposed 

and dissolved by hot hydrochloric acid, and are con- 
verted by nitric acid into oxide, which is insoluble in 
an excess of nitric acid. Suhhmed stannic sulphide is 
dissolved only by hot aqua regia. 



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REAGENTS 205 

42. Autitnonious oxide, soluble in hydrochloric acid, not in 

nitric acid. 

43. Basic antimonious chloride, A. 

44. Antimony sulphide is completely dissolved by hydro- 

chloric acid, especially upon heating ; it is decomposed 
by nitric acid, but dissolved only to a slight degree. 

45. Calcium antimony sulphide, W-A. 

46. Potassium antimony tartrate, W. 

47. Hydrogen calcium malate, W. 

REAGENTS 

With a few exceptions, all reagents should be of the highest 
purity obtainable and each sample lot tested before use. The 
fact that the bottle bears the label C. P. is no guarantee of its 
purity. It is especially important that the reagent be tested for 
the presence of the acid or basic radical it is employed to detect ; 
£.£"., " arsenic free zinc " should be tested for arsenic by the 
Gutzeit or Fleitmann test before being used. Sodium carbonate, 
employed in relatively large amounts for fusion purposes, should 
be of a high degree of purity, and should be tolerably free from 
foreign bases and acids. 

Solutions 
Acids 
- Cone. HCl, sp. gr, 1.2, 39 % HCl by weight 
— DiL HCl, 3 H, sp. gr. 1^05, 10 % HCl by weight 

— Cone. HNO^, sp. gr. \.^i, 70 % HNOg by weight. 

— DU. HNO^y 3 N, sp. gr. i.io, 10 fo HNOg by weight 
"' Cone. H^SO^ sp. gr. 1.84, 98 % HaSO^. 

DU. H^SOi, 3 K, sp. gr. 1.09, 13 % HaSO^. 

Cone. HF, 40 %. 
..^Aeetic Aeid, 5 N, sp. gr. 1.04, 30 fo by weight Dilute 285 cc 
glacial acetic acid to a liter. 

Sulphurous Aeid, H^SO^ a solution saturated at 15° contains 
approximately 16.5 % HjSOa. 
. tartaric Aeid, 2 H, 1 50 g. in i liter. 



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2o6 QVAUTATIVE CBBMICAL ANALYSIS 

Aqua Regia, I part of cone. HNOgto 3 parts cone. HCl; to 
be prepared only when needed. 

H^S gas is prepared by the action of HCl (l :i) on FeS ; the 
gas should be washed hy passing it through water before using. 



- — ' Cone. Ammonia, sp. gr. 0.90, 28 % NH,. 
. . Dil. Ammonia, sp. gr. o.g6, 10 % NHg. 

— Sodium hydroxide, NaOH, 4 M. 

As the material used for qualitative purposes contains about 
10 ^ of water, the amount needed for a 4 If solution will be 
4 X 40 X y = 177.7 g. in I liter. 

Potassium hydroxide, KOH, 4 H. 

The grade used for analytical purposes contains about 20 % 
water ; hence the quantity needed for a 4 N solution will be 
4 X 56 X f = 280 g. in I liter. 
~ Barium hydroxide, Ba(OH)y saturated solution. 
^^ Caicium hydroxide, Ca(OH^ saturated solution. 

Salts 
' Ammonium acetate, NH^CgHgOg. 3 N. 250 g. in a liter. 
. Ammonium carionate, {im^COf SO^ free. Dissolve, without 
heating, 192 g. of the powdered salt in a mixture of 80 cc. of 
NHjOH{sp. gr. cgo^nd Jcw cc. of water. When solution is 
complete, dilute to i Uter. The strength is approximately 4 H. 
■' Ammonium chloride, NH4CI, 4 K. 214 g. in i liter. 

— Ammonium molybdate solution. To a mixture of 271 cc. of 
cold distilled water and 144 cc. of NH,OH (sp. gr. 0.90), add 
too g. MoOg and stir till solution is complete ; slowly add this 
solution with constant stirring to a mixture of 489 cc. HNOg 
(sp. gr. 1.42) and I148 cc. of water. Allow the mixtiu'e to 
stand for 24 hours and then decant the clear liquid into a bottle. 

Ammonium oxalate, ^^K^)^^0^ ■ HjO. 35-54 g- in I liter. 

Ammonium sulphide (colorless), (NH4)aS. Saturate 3 parts 
of NHjOH with HjS, add 2 parts of ammonium hydroxide, 
and dilute with an equal volume of water. 



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REAGENTS 207 

Ammonium sulphide (yellow), (NHi)^,. Digest the color- - 
less undiluted (NH4)jS with flowers of sulphur in the proportion 
of I g. to the liter and then dilute with an equal volume of water. 
■'^^^^'Ammonium sulphate, (\^^^^0^^ H, 100 g. in i liter. 

■""^ Barium chloride, BaClj • 2 H^O, N. 122.17 g. in i liter. 

^Bromine water, saturated solution. 

-Calcium chloride, CaClj, anhydrous, M. 55.6 g. in i liter. 
Calcium sulphate, CaSO^ • 2 H3O, saturated solution. 
Chlorine water, saturated solution. 

Cobalt nitrate, Co(NOg)2 • 6 HjO, for confirmatory tests for Al 
and Zn. 0.5 g. in i liter. 

Copper sulphate, CuSOi ■ 5 HaO. 2 H. 249.6 g. in i liter. 
Dimethylglyoxime. Dissolve S g. in 500 cc. hot 95 9J1 alcohoL 
Ferric alum, Y&4^0^ • (NH4)jS04 ■ 24 H3O, saturated solu- 
tion. 

Ferric chloride, FeClg ■ 6 HjO,* 2 H. 180 g. in i liter. 
Ferrous sulphate, FeSO^ - 7 HjO. To be prepared in small 
amounts as needed. 

Hydrochlorplatinic acid, HjPtCl, • 6 HjO. 10 % solution. 
Hydrogen dioxide, 3 %■ 
~^=-.Lead acetate, '^^S^^O^ ■ 3 HjO,t N. 189.5 g. in i liter. 
Magnesia mixture. Dissolve 1 10 g. of MgClg • 6 H3O and 
280 g. of NH4CI in a liter of distilled water ; when solution is 
complete, add z6i cc. of ammonium hydroxide (sp. gr. 0.90), 
then add enough water to make the volu.iie 2 liters. 
-^ Mercuric chloride, HgClj. Saturated solution. 
^r Phenolpkthalein, ife solution in 50% ethyl alcohoL 
Potassium acetate, KCjHgOa. Saturated solution. 
__,,Potassium ckromate, KjCrOj, H. 97.3 g. in 1 hter. 
Potassium cyanide, KCN, N. 65.2 g. in l liter. 
.^ Potassium dichromate, K,CrjO,, N. 73.8 g. in i liter. 
^ Potassium ferrocyanide, Yi.^diiz^\, N. 105.7 g. in i liter. 

,^ Potassium iodide, KI, — ■ 83,1 g. in i liter. 
2 , 

Potassium nitrite, KNOj. 500 g. in i liter. 

Potassium permanganate, KMnO^, N, 79,1 g- in i liter. 

* Should coDlain a little ftee HQ. t The solutioD should canlaiD some free acetic add. 



/ 



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308 QUAUTATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

^ "Potassium tkioeyanate, KCNS, N. 97.2 g. in i liter. 

' Silvernitrate, AgNOg, — ■ 42.5 g. in i liter. 
4 

Silver sulphate, AgjSO^. Saturated solution. 

Sodium acetate, NaCjHgOj, 4 H. 328 g. in i liter. 
— Sodium carbonate, Na^COa (dry). Saturated solution. 

Sodium cobaliic nitrite, NajCo(NOj)a. Dissolve 100 g. NaNOj 
in 300 cc. distilled water, slightly acidify with acetic acid, and 
then add 10 g. of Co(NOa)a • 6 HjO. Allow the solution to 
stand for 24 hours and filter if necessary. As the solution does 
not keep very well, only small amounts should be prepared at a 
time. 

Sodium nitroprusside,'^SLi'Fc'iiiO(Q.l<l\- 2 HjO. 10 fo solutioru 
■ Sodium phosphate, NajHPO^ ■ 12 HjO, N. 119 g. in I liter. 

Sodium stannite, prepared as needed by adding to a little SnCI^ 
solution sufficient NaOH solution to redissolve the precipitate 
which first forms. 

Sodium thiosulphate, NajSjOs • 5 HjO, N. 124 g. in i liter. 

Stannic chloride, SnCl4, — • 32.7 g. in i liter. 

.^Stannous chloride,* SnClg ■ 2 HjO, — • 56.5 g. in I liter. 

— Stannous chloride (for Bettendorif Test). Dissolve 113 g. of 
SnCLj ■ 2 HjO in 75 cc. of cone. HCl, and add a few pieces 
of C.P. tin foil and keep in a glass stoppered bottle. 

Starch paste. Prepared as needed by mixing about I g, of 
powdered starch with a. little cold water to form a thin paste 
and then adding it to 200 cc. of boiling water ; boil for a minute, 
cool, and use. The solution does not keep, owing to the growth 
of molds. It may be kept for some time, however, if a pre- 
servative such as CSa is added. 

• The solution ihould be strongly »cid with HO; the additioii of ft little GP. tin 
foil preventi the oxitUtioD of the reagent. 



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Solvents 

Alcohol, amyl, (CgHj^OH)^ C.P. Used in small amounts in 
the test for acetate. 

Alcohol, ethyl, (CjHgOH), g$%, sp. gr. 0.815. 
Benzol, C,Hg, useful for dissolving sulphur. 
Chloroform, CHClj, used for dissolving iodine. 
Carbon disulphide, CS^, used for dissolving iodine. 
Ether, ethyl, (C3H()jO, solvent for fats and oils. 

Dry Reagents 
Aluminum turnings, pure. 
Ammonium chloride, NH,C1, C.P. 
Ammonium nitrate, NH^NOs, C.P. 
Borax, NajB40i ■ 10 HjO, C.P. and powdered. 
Calcium carbonate, CaCOg, alkali free. 
Calcium fluoride, CaF,, SiOj free. 
Copper, strips. 

Ferrous sulphate, FeSO^ ■ 7 HgO, C.P. 
Fusion mixture (Na^COg + KjCOg, dry and C.P.). 
Iron filings. 
Iron nails. 

Lead dioxide, PbOg, free from Mn. 

Litmus paper, blue and red ; to be kept in stoppered bottles. 
Manganese dioxide, MnOg, C.P. and powdered. 
Microcosraic salt, NaNH^HPO, • 4 HjO. 
Parafhne, m.-p. 124°. 

Potassium acid sulphate, KHSO4, fused, C.P. in small lumps. 
Potassium chlorate, KClOg, C.P. powdered. 
Potassium chloride, KCl, C.P. 
Potassium cyanide, KCN, pure. 
Potassium dichromate, KjCrjOj, C.P. powdered. 
Potassium ferricyanide, KgFe(CN)g, C.P. 
Potassium nitrate, KNOg, C.P. fine crystals. 
Sand, sea. 



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HO QUAUTATIVE CUEMICAL ANALYSIS 

Silica, SiOa, purified. 

Sodium acetate, NaCaHjOj. C.P. 

Sodium acid carbonate, NaHCOg, C.P. 

Sodium carbonate, Na^COs, anhydrous, C.P. powdered. 

Sodium dioxide, Na^O,, C.P. 

Sodium sulphite, Na^SOg • 7 H,0, pure anhydrous. 

Starch, potato. 

Sulphur, Sowers. 

Tin foil, C.P. 

Turmeric paper ; to be kept in glass-stoppered bottles. 

Zinc, granulated, C.P. 

Zinc, granulated, arsenic-free. 



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APPARATUS 



LIST OF APPARATUS 



2 nests of beakers, Griffin, 1-4. 
I graduated cylioder, 10 cc. 
I graduated cylinder, 50 cc 
I wash bottle with fittings, 

750 cc. 
4 funnels, 6.5 cm. 

1 funnel, lO cm. 

2 pieces cobalt glass. 

t doz. test tubes (is cm.) 

3 ft. glass rod. 

3 ft. glass tubing. 
2 specimen bottles, 50 cc. 
2 watch glasses, 10 cm. 
2 watch glasses, 5 cm. 
I watch glass, 12.5 cm. 

1 florence flask, f. b. 50 cc. 

2 evaporating dishes, 10 cm, 
2 evaporating dishes, 6.5 cm. 
I porcelain crucible. 

I horn spatula. 

I rubber stopper, one bole, 

No. I. 
I funnel cleaner, 
I sponge. 



I test tube cleaner. 

} box gummed labels, § 217. 

I doz. sheets filter paper, 18.5 

cm., S. & S. 59S. 
I pkg. filter paper, 12.5 cm., 

S. & S. S9S- 
I doz. fluted filters, 12.5 cm., 

S. & S. 588. 
I test tube rack. 
I test tube holder, 
I filtering stand. 
I box matches, safety. 
I pair forceps (small). 
I pipe stem triangle. 

1 retort stand (2 rings). 

2 bunsen burners, with hose. 
I blowpipe. 

1 stick charcoal. 

2 pieces wire gauze, lO cm, 

square. 
I triangular file. 
I platinum wire. 
I platinum foil. 
I towel 



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aia QVAUTATIVE CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 

PREPARATION OF UNKNOWNS 

la the making up of unknowns, stock solutions of the concen- 
tration I cc. = ICX> mg. of metal are prepared. The quantity of 
salt necessary to dissolve in a liter to yield this strength is given 
in column $ of the table below. By means of burettes or pipettes 
definite quantities of these standard solutions are measured out 
into student " unknown " bottles, homeopathic vials of 50 cc. ca- 
pacity. For the analysis the student uses 2$ cc. of his solution, 
the other half being reserved in case the analysis is to be re- 
peated. The amounts of standard solutions pipetted out should 
be such as to yield a suitable concentration when the volume is 
diluted to 50 cc, i.^., when the unknown bottle is filled. An 
example will make this clear. Pipette out into unknown bottle 
I cc. NaCl solution, 2 cc. Ca(NO,)j, and i cc. of NH^NOg, a-nd 
then fill the bottle with distilled water. Since the student uses 
only 25 cc. of this solution, this quantity will contain 50 mg. 
Na, lob mg. Ca, and 50 mg. NH^. Qualitative unknowns may 
be prepared of such a strength that the total weight of metal 
in 25 cc. never exceeds 1.5 grams, though it should usually be 
kept within i gram. The minimum will depend upon the scheme 
of analysis employed. It may be exceedingly small if the most 
sensitive tests are used, £.£■., the spectroscopic tests for the 
alkali and alkaline earth metals, the KCNS test for Fe, and 
the Marsh and Gutzeit tests for As and Sb. But if it is desired 
that the student report roughly the relative proportions of the 
ingredients present, precipitation methods will be largely used, 
which, by the size of the precipitates they yield, give indications 
of the approximate quantities of the metals present In the 
latter case, the minimum quantity of metal present in 50 cc. will 
have to be much larger than it is in the first case. 



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PREPARATION OF UNKNOWNS 



TABLE EMPLOYED IN THE PREPARATION OF STANDARD 

STOCK SOLUTIONS* 











Qo«mtTOF 










Salt to u Dig. 


G»OT StOBTAVCB 


%^^ 




PnCDTT. 


SniNCTH I cc. 


lAgNO, . . . . 


170 


V. 5.» 


'3-5 


■i7 


HgNO.H,0 . . 


380 


HN^ 


71.S 


140 


Pb(NO,), . . . 


33' 


48 


62.S 


160 


Pb(C.H,0,).-3H,0 


379 


46 


54.6 


183 


lIHg(NO.)»-i(HiO) 


333 


'h^ 


60 


167 


HgCl, 


371 


.7-4 


74 


•35* 


Bi(NO0.sHtO . 


484 


'hn™* 


« 


233 


Cu(NO,)i-6H,0 . 


=95 


V, s- 


...s 


46s 


Cua,3H,0. . . 


170 


I30 


37 


270 


CuSC-sHjO . . 


249 


40 


=5 


400 


Cd(NO,)i.4HiO . 


308 




36 


S78 


CdOi-aHgO . . 


319 


140 


S> 


.96 


3CdSO,.8H,0. . 


769 


V. a. 


43-S 


230 


AsiOj 


198 


4 


75 -S 


( )■ 


NajHAsO, . . . 


170 


V. a. 


44 


227 


NajHAsO,.uH^ 


403 


38 


i«.7 


( )' 


As.O( 


230 


150 


6S 


153 


SbO, 


226 


-^■^hS- 


S3 


188 


SnClr2H,0 , . 


225 




S3 


■89 


SnC34sH,0 . . 


3S0 


v. s. 


34 


^ 


SnCU 


360 


v.s. 


46 


318 



1 Verjt soluble. 

■ Tbis amount Teadily diMolvo In i llier of mier coataiufng sog. of Nad. 

*33g. in I IHer HO <i : i) giv«> stieiigtb icc^asmga. As. 

* 367 g. in I liter will givs strength icc.=50 mgs. As. 

• T&iMn &om an article pabUshed in &it«i/ &i. <M^ JWii VoLX^ No. fik br one of H 



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QUAUTATIVB CBEMICAL ANALYSIS 



TABLE EMPLOYED IN THE PREPARATION OF STANDARD 
STOCK SOLUTIONS — CwMmm/ 











OvAmnTW 










Salt TO u Do- 


Gbodf Soarucm 


'S^ 


Sdluuutt of 

SAiTiMiooPia. 


^£sr- 


XrmTociTB 




iwCoLoWAna 
























MCTAI. 


III Al,(SO0.i8H,O . 


£66 


107 


8.1 


( y 


A1CI,<H,0. . . 


242 


74 


ii.i 


( )• 


A](NO,),.8Hrf) . 


261 


v.a. 


10.3 


970 


Ct,{S0,),."8H,0. 


716 


T. s. 


14.6 


690 


K^r,<SO,). 34HO 




20 


S-2 


( )' 


Cr(NO.)..9H,0 . 


*» 


V. s. 


13 


770 


Cca,-6HK). . . 


»66.s 


v.s. 


19.6 


510 


FeS0,7H,0 . . 


J78 


60 


30 


Soo 


Fe(N0.)..9H,0 . 


404 


v.s. 


14 


715 


FeCl,.6H,0. . . 


270 


v.a. 


20.7 


482 


Ni(N0.),.6H,0 . 


291 


SO 




soo 


Niat-6H,0. . . 


238 


v.s. 


as 


400 


NiS0,.7H,0 . . 


280 


106 


21 


47S 


Co(NO.),.6H,0 . 


29. 


v.s. 


20 


SOO 


Coa,.6H,0. . . 


238 


v.s. 


24.S 


407 


C0SO47HJO . . 


28t 


so 




475 


MoSO,-4H,0 . . 


233 


123 


35 


400 


MnCWHfl . . 


198 


150 


28 


360 


Mii(N0,),-6H,0 . 


287 




19 


537 


ZnSO,.7HtO . . 


288 


'3S 


32-5 


445 


Zii(N0,),6H,0 . 


398 


v.s. 


23 


455 


ZnCl, 


•36 


v.s. 


48. . 


308 



1 630K. in I IHei will (lire strenfftfa i cc=5o ng, AL 
*t$pg. in I liter will give strength ( cc.=5o mg. AL 
'igag.iD I titer will give itrength icc=iomg, of Cn 



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PSEPARATION OP UNKNOWNS 



TABLE EMPLOYED IN THE PREPARATION OF STANDARD 
STOCK SOLUTIONS — GwtA««(rf 











Qminmow 










SalttobbD» 


Omour SmntuCK 


wlS^ 


SoUmUTTOF 


^„^- 


100 ua or 
Mrru. 


IVBaOiaHjO. . . 


244 


4. 


56 


179 


Ba(CtH,O0t-Hrf). 


273 


63 


SO 


300 


Sr(NO,),.4H^ . 


284 


40 


31 


324 - 


Sr(NO.), . . . 


313 


39 


41-3 


343 


Srai-6H,0 . . . 


266 


106 


33 


304 


CiCii 


III 


v.s. 


36 


278 


Ca(N0a),.4H,0 . 


336 


V. s. 


17 


S90 


VMgSO.-jHjO . . 


346 


77 


9-7 


( )' 


Mg(N0,)r6H^ . 


356.5 


300 


9-4 


1060 


Mga,-6Hrf) . . 


M3S 


36s 


1 1.9 


837 


NaCl 


58 


3S 


40 ' 


350 


NaiHPO^iaHiO . 


3S8 


9.3 


U 


( )• 


NaNO, . . . . 


85 


So 


27 


371 


KQ 


7S 


32 


53 


193 


KHSO, . . . . 


136 


V.S. 


28.S 


350 


KNO 


JOI 


31 


39 


357 


NHjO . . . . 


53 


33 


34 


394 


(NH4),S04 . . . 


133 


76 


27.5 


36s 


NH4NO, .... 


8q 


300 


32.5 


445 


(NH0,HPO4 . . 


133 


36s 


27.5 


36s 


Lia 


42 


80 


16.7 


600 


LINO. . . . . 


69 


48 


10 


c )■ 



* 515 K- Id I U>er will gnt strength i cc.=50 mg. Ug. 
*77g. in I liter will give Etrength i cc.=iomg. Na. 

*5Q0g. ini litaTwiUgiieUKngibic«.=50ing.U. 



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Acetite, buic, of AI, 7s. 
Cr.78. 
Fe (-ic), 84. 
sqiuation, 03. 
Acetates, action of beat on, 156. 
detection, 183. 
TeactioDs, 156. 
wlutnlities, 156. 
Add analysis, general examination, 165. 
defined, 8. 

prdiminaiy cxanunatjon, 160, 
Adds, detection in nunerals, 199. 
dissociation, 11. 
division into groups, 1 13. 
first group, analytical, 168. 
descriptive, 134. 
pielinunaiy examination for, i6o. 
second group, analytical, 176. 
descriptive, 143. 
qiecial tests for, 168. 
third group, analytical, 181. 
descriptive, 156. 
Agate mortar, 13B. 
Alcohol, amyl, 156, 183. 
ethji,is«. 
reduction of chnnnatea I9 meaoB of, 

Alkalies, diaracteristics of, in. 
detection in Scheme V., 119. 
detection in ^cates, igS. 
salts of, reactions, 113. 
sdubilities, iii. 
Alkaline earths, characteristics of, lor. 
detection in Schone IV., loB. 
salts of, reactions, loi. 
solutnlities, loi. 
ADoya, analy^s of, rga. 
Aluminate of sodium, decranpodtlon with 
add, 71, 
decon^NMition with NHjCl, 71, 
AluminiiTTi, detection in sdieme of analy- 
sis. 98. 
salts, chaiactetisdcs, 70. 



Aluminum salts, reactions, 70. 

scdubilities, 70. 
Ammonia, convex salts of, 43, 46, 85, 
87, 91. 

in drinking water, 1 16. 
Ammonium aiseno-molybdate, 51. 

carbonate, leagent, zo6. 

chlorplatinate, 115. 

-magnesium arsenate, 53. 

-magnesium pho^hate, I r>. 

phospho-molybdate, 131. 

salts, detection, 119. 
reactions, 115, 
solubilities, 115. 

sulphide, colodess, 306. 

Amyl alcohol, 156, 183, 
Analysis, add, genctal, 165. 

add, ti minerals, 199. 

for metals of all groups, tat, 

of alloys, 193. 

of Group in. (metals) in the proKuce 
(d phosphates, etc, 185. 

of insoluble substances, 193. 

qualitative, i. 

quantitative, j. 
Anions, 6. 

Antimonic compounds, reactions, 55. 
Antimonious con^Munds, reactions, 53. 
Antimony, detection in sdieme of Miif- 

by Gutzdt Test, 56. 

fay Marsh Test, 56. 

fay Reinadi Test, 56. 
Apparatus, list of, iii. 
Aqua Eegia, action of BS on, 61. 

as on oxidizing a^ent, 35, 40. 

as a solvent, 15, 40, 190. 

preparation of, 15, 40, 306. 

removal of excess, 6r, igi. 
Arsenates, detection, 51, Ag, 171. 

reactions of, 51. 

reduction with KI, 51. 



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Aneiuttes, reduction iriUi SOt, 39, 51, 5a. 

spedal tests foi, si> 171- 
Anenic, sdds of, 46. 

eenstiveness of ^edal tests for, 50. 
Anenic tests, ^>edal : 
BettendorS, 50. 
Fleitmann, 49. 
Gutzat, 49. 
Maiah, 49. 
Rdnsch, 50. 
tsfor, i 



49- 
in wall papei, 49. 
Araenites, detection, 49, 69, 171. 
oxidation of, 50. 
teactions, 47. 
sdulHlities, 47. 
special tests for, 49, 171. 
Aisne,4<)> 

Barium hydroxide, reagDit, 306. 

salts, detection in scheme of analysis. 



solubilities, loz. 
sulphate, decosqiostion of, 103. 
Base defined, 9. 
Bases, list erf, ao6. 
dissociation, la. 
Basic acetate of aluminuin, 71. 
diromium, 78. 
iron {-ic), 84. 
Basic acetate separation, 93. 
Bead tests with tioiax, 164. 

teats with NaPO,, 138, 174, 195, 1 
BettendoifF test for As, 50. 
Bismuth salts, bade, 43. 



soluMlities, 43. 

test in sdieme of analysis, 66. 
Blowpape tests on charcoal, 163, 164. 
Borates, detection in salts, 173. 

detection in slicates, 136. 

reactions, 135. 

solubilities, 135, 
Borax bead tests, 164. 
Boric add, d^ection, 173. 
Bromides, detection, iTiS. 

insduble, 14s, 195. 

reactions, 145. 

sdulnlities, 145. 



Cadmium salts, detection in scheme of 
analysis, 66. 

reactions, 46. 

soluhiliUes, 45. 
Caldum salts, detection in Bdune of 
analy^, loS. 

reactions, 106. 

sulphate, analysis of, 103. 
Carbon, detection of, 193. 

removal of, 193, 197. 
Carbonaceous resdue, I4r, r6i, 185. 
Carbcmates, detection, 16S. 

reactions, 116. 

solubilities, 136. 
Carbonic add, detection, 136, 168. 
Cations, 6. 
Chlorates, as ondizing agents, 36, 91. 

bdiaviot on ignition, 159. 

detection, 1S3. 

leactions, 159. 

stdubilities, 159. 
Chlorides, detection in absence of bto- 
midea, 177. 

detection in presence of bromides and 
iodides, 178. 

insduble, treatment (d, 144, 195. 

reactions, 144. 

solubilities, 143. 
Chlorine water, reagent, 307. 
Chlorplatinate, ammonium, 115. 

potassium, 113. 
Chromatea, as oxidizing agents, 36. 
dichromates, 75. 



170. 
reacticms, 143. 
reduction of, 76. 
solubilities, 141. 
Chrome-iron ore, treatment of, 195. 
Chromium, insoluble compounds, treat- 
ment of, 143. 
oiidaticHi to chromates, 74. 
reactions, 77. 
salts, detection in sdieme d audyns, 

97- 
solubilities, 76. 
Chromyl chloride test for chlorides, 

17S. 
Classification of metals, ag. 
Closed tube tests, i6r. 
Cobalt nitrate test iot M, 73. 
lutrate test for Zn, 93, 



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Cobalt salts, detectkn In sdteme of 
uulyBis,96. 

olidation to oobaltk oon^ouDds, 
87, S8. 

resctioiis, 87. 
O^Hdal As£t, 47- 
CoUddal state, 65. 
Common ion dFect, 15. 
Conductivity, g. 

at infinite dilution, 11. 

equivalent, 10. 

C(q>per salts, detection in sdume of 
analysis, 66. 

leactimis, 43. 

sdubilities, 43. 
Cyaiudes, action of heat on, 148. 

as reducing agents, 39. 

detection, iSo. 

reactions of ample, 149. 

stdubilities, 148. 

Decantation, 3. 

Deoompositionof alkaline earth aulfitetes, 
103, ig4. 

antimony tetroxide, igs. 

cassiteiite, 195. 

Chcmnium conqiounds (ingcd.)i ^9S- 

flnorq>ai, 195. 

isnited oxides, 19s. 

Prussian blue, 151, 194. 

ulicates, 138, 195. 

nlver halides, 195. 
Dehydration of ^dc add, 139. ( 
Diduoraates, conversion 
76. 

reduction with 'H^, 61, 76. 

reduction with alcdiol, 61, 76. 
Directions foi laboiatoiy wtxk, 3. 

Electrolytes, 4. 
Electrolytic dissodation, 4. 
Equations, complicated, wiitiiigaf, aa. 

defined, 10. 

factors of, 3a 

methods of writing, ao. 

products of, 30. 
Eth)4 alcohol, 61, 143, 183. 
Examination, general, for adds, 165. 

prdiminaiy (gcnenl), 160. 



Ferric salts, diaiactenstica. Si. 

detection in sdione ci analyns, 96. 



Fenicyanides, acticai on heating, 15a. 

detection, 179. 

reactions, ija. 

eohibilities, 151. 
Ferrocyanides, detection, 179. 

reactions, 151. 

floIubiUties, r5r. 
Ferrous salts, characteristics, 78. 

detection in scheme of analysis, 96. 
Ferrous salts, oxidation to fenic, 81. 

reactions, 79. 
PHtrate defined, 1. 
Flame tests, 164, 196. 
Fleitmann test for As, 49. 
Fluorides, characteristics, 13a. 

detection in the absence of Si<^, 173. 

detection in the presence of SiC^ 
173- 

reactions, t^3. 

solubilities, r3a. 
Fluodlicates, detection, 170. 

reactions of, 135. 

Glass, etching of, 133. 

Group reagents, 30. 

Group I., adds, analytiral, t68. 

descriptive, 113, 134. 
Group n., adds, analytical, r76. 

descriptive, ri3, r43. 
Group m., adds, analytical, iSi. 

descriptive, 134, rjC- 
Group I., metals, analytical, 38. 
descriptive, 33. 
Group n.. A, metals, analytical, 66, 
descriptive, 40. 
Group n., B, metals, analytical, 69. 
descriptive, 46. 
Groiqi m., metals, analytital, 0. 
descriptive, 70. 
Group IV., metals, analytical, 108. 
descriptive, roi. 
GroiQ) V-, metals, analytical, 119. 
descriptive, 11 1. 
Groups, divinon of adds into, 133. 

metals into, 19, 3^ 31. 
Gntzdt test for As, 4()> 



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330 



Hut's method, 17B. 
Hntiiig in doaed tube, l6t. 
oa ch&rcoftl, 164. 
with coac. HuSOfc i6a. 
Hy<bogeii dioxide, oiidatioii with, 17. 

nascent, u a Tcdudng sgcot, 38. 
^fdioeen sidphide as Group H. reagent, 
61. 
tedudng agent, 61. 
detection, iSi. 
Hydrolysis, salts oi antimoi^, 54. 
tnsmuth, 41. 
iron {-ic), 81. 

Insoluble substances, treatment of, 193. 
sdieme of analysis for, 197. 



Iodides, dtaracteristics of, 147. 
detection, ij6. 
insoluble, treatment of, 196. 



removal of, in preparatian of solution, 

190. 
solubilities, 146. 

Iron, seeferrotts ani ferric. 

Laboratory work, directioDS for, 3. 
Lawof the Conservatiou of Elements, ai. 
Weight, 31. 
Mass Action, 13. 
Lead acet&te, reagent, 107. 

peroxide as an oxidiziDg sclent, 17. 
salts, detection in small amounts, 36. 
scheme d analyss, 
38,66. 
reactions, 35. 

removal of, in the analysis ol insoluble 
substances, 197. 

Magnesia mixture, reagent, 107. 
Uagnesium salts, detection in scheme of 
anatyss, 11 9. 



removal of, ito. 

solubilities, iti. 
Manganate of sodium, gi. 
Manganese salts, detection of small 
90. 



and tommtioti, 14. 
influence of diluticHl, 14, 
Mecfidnal prepatstions, arsenic in, 49. 
Mercuric salts, detectkm in sduine ot 
analy^, 66. 
reactions, 40. 
Mercurous salts, detectiiMi in sdieme of 
uuilyss, 38. 
reactions, 34. 
Metals, divi^on of, into groups, 31. 
(koup L, reactions of, 33. 

sdieme of analyss for, 3S. 

Groiq) H., A, reactions of, 40. 

scheme of analy^s for, 66. 

Group n., B, reactions of, 46. 

sdteme of analyus for, 69. 

Group m., reactions of, 70. 

sdieme of analysis for, 96. 
Group IV., reactions of, loi. 

sdieme of analy^s for, roS. 
Group v., reactions of, iii. 
scheme of analysis for, 119. 
Metals and alloys, analy^ of, 191. 
Metaphoaphate bead test for SiOi, 13S, 

174, i«. 196- 
Metastannic compounds, reactions lA, 60. 
■ 60. 



Metathesis, 31. 
Minerals, analyss for adds, 199. 
powdering ot, 13 B, 

Nessler's reagent, ir6. 
Nit^el salts, diaracte^tics of, 84. 
detection in scheme of analysis, 96. 



Nitrates, behavior on ignition, 157. 
detection, iSt. 
distinction from chlorates, 160. 



solubilities, 157. 
Nitric add, as an oxidi^ng agent, 15. 

action on ferrous salts, a$. 

action on HiS, 6r. 

action da iodides, 190. 

detection of free, 1^9. 
Nitrites, behavior on iffaOoa, 155. 



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Organic nutter, detedioK, i6i, 1S5. 

interference of, 185. 

removal of, 1S6. 
Orthophcaphoric odd, 119. 
Oxalates, behavior 01 

detection, 171, iSO. 

iiit«rfeience of, 185. 

leactioQs, 134. 

removal of, 186. 

solubilities, 134. 
Oxidation defined, 13. 
Oxidizing agents : 

aqua regia, 15. 

halogens, 14. 



lead peroxide, 17. 

potaflMum chlotate, 36. 
potasuum dichromate, 16. 
potassium permanganate, 17. 
removal of, before piedpitstiiig with 

H»5, 61. 
sodium dioxide, 37. 

Permaoganates as oxididiig agents, 37. 
Phosphate, meta-, test for SiOi, 138, 174, 
19s. "96- 

separation, 188. 
Phosphates, characteristicl of, IS9. 

detection, 173, 186. 

interference o^ 185. 



removal of, 1S8. 

scheme of analyds in the pfeaeoce of, 

188. 

solubilities, 130. 

Phosphoric addi, 139. 

Platinum wire, cleaning of, no. 

Potas^mn chlorate, 16. 



Potassium, permanganate, 36. 

salts, detection in scheme of am^ris, 

reactions, 113. 

stJubilities, X13. 
Powdering minerals, 138. 
Predpitates, washing of, 1. 



Predpitfttion, defined, a. 

completeness of, 39. 

with HiS, 63. 
Preliminary tests, dosed tube, rti. 

wilii cone aS04, 163. 

with dil. HO, 163. 
Prepamtion of sdution for adds, 165. 
of solids, 1S9. 

Qualitative analy^ I. 
Quantitative analy^, i. 

Reactions of metals lA Gimq) L, 33. 
Group H,, A, 40. 
B, 46. 
Group m., 70. 
Group IV., loi. 
Group v.. III. 
Ructions, reveraible, 43, 54, 6<^ 73, 81, 
83, 84, 100, 103, isC. 



Reagents, detection of arsenic in, 4Q. 
dry, list of, sag. 
group, 39. 
list of, 305. 
use and care of, 3. 
Reducing agents, Ibt of, 34. 
Reduction defined, 13. 
with carbon, 39. 

hydrogen sulphide, 38. 
nascent hydrogen, aS. 
potassium cyanide, 39. 
stannous chloride, 38. 
sulphurous add, ig, 51. 
Reinsch test for As, 5% 
Sb,s6. 
Removal trf bromidea, igo. 
iodides, rgo. 
organic matter, 186. 
oxalates, 186. 
pho^ihates, 18S. 
alicatea, 137, 186. 
Residue defined, 3. 



n., A, metals ot the oappet group, 

66. 
IL, B, metalt of the tin group, 69. 



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332 I»i 

Scbeme m., metals cl the iioa grcnq}, 
96. 
IV., tbe alkaline earths group, to8. 
v., the alkalies, 119. 
SqmatioD of lA fiom sB, 63, 64. 
Silica, tests for, 138, 174, 186, 196. 
Silicates, allcaties in, 198. 

decoTi^>ositioii by adds, 138. 

by.fuaon with alkali cubonate, 

139- 
by HF, 140- 
detection, 174, 186. 
reactions, 137. 
removal of, 137, 186. 
Klver halides, TcmovaJ of, 197. 
salts, characteristics, 33. 

detection in scheme of anafy^, 

38. 
teacdons, 33. 
tnatmcDt of, 195. 
Smith, J. L., method for alkalies, 19S. 
So(Uum alumjnate, decompodtion by 

cobaltic nitrite, reagent, 308. 
dioxide as an oiidiang agent, 17. 
!, 91. 



phoqifaate bead test, 138, 174, igs, 

196. 
gJumlHte test for sulphides, 154. 
salts, detection in scheme <A analysis. 



Solids, preliminary testing cd, i6t. 
Solubilities, table of, loi. 
Solubility product, 16. 
Solution of insoluble substaitces, 193. 
preparation of, for analysis, 189. 
preparation of, for add analysis, 
r6s. 
Solvents, list of, log. 
Staimic, meta, compounds, 60. 
salts, characteristics, 58. 

detection in sdume (rf analysis, 

69. 
reactions, 58. 
sdubilities, 58. 
Stannite of sodimn, reagent, 108. 



Stanmnis salts, diaiacteristica of, 57. 

detection in scheme of analysis, 6g. 

reactions, 57. 

reduction by means of, 38. 

solubilities, 57. 
Starch iodide reaction, 14S. 

paste, prq>aration of, 308. 

Strontium salts, detection in scheme of 
analysis, 108. 
reactions, 105. 

sulphate, decomposition of, 103. 
Substances, insoluble, 193. 
Sulphates, characteristics of, 134. 

decomposition of ■ntaliiw earth, 103, 
194. 

detection, 169. 

TCflctions, 114. 

sduMlities, 114. 
Sulphides, behavior on ignition, 153. 

detection, 154, 181. 

insoluble, r54. 

reactions, 154. 

sodium plumbite test for, 154. 

solubilities, 153. 
Su^hites, characteristics of, 137. 

detection, r69. 

reactions, 137. 

sidubilities, 137. 
Sulphur, removal of, 193. 
Sulphuric add, detection of free, r34. 

prdiminary testing with, 163. 
Synthe^s, ai. 

Systematic treBtment of insoluble sub- 
stances, 196. t 

Table for the prqwiation of unknowns, 
313. 

of sdubilities, loa. 
Tartrates, behavior on ignition, 141. 

characteristics of, 140. 

detection, 175. 

reactions, r4o. 

solubilities, r4o. 
Thenard's green, 91. 
Theory of Electrolytic Dissociation, «• 
Tliio-antimonate, $6, 

-antimonite, 54. 

-arsenate, 48. 

-arscnite, 48. 

-^auates, detection, 179. 



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Ilio-cyKii&tes, nactiona, 153. 
solubilities, 153. 
-stannate, 57. 
-sull^te, detection, 169. 



Turmeric pi^>er, a 10. 
Unkuovras, prepantioii of, a 



Vortmajm's method, 178, 



Zinc Baits, characteristics of, gi. 

detection of , in sdieme of analysis, 9G . 

reftctions, gi. 

solubilities, 91. 
Zinc'idalinumoou;^ acticm o^ tm SbCk, 
55- 



Piintsd in U» ttDltcd StUa ol Amuick 



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